Irrigation fluid containment systems

ABSTRACT

Various irrigation fluid containment systems and components are disclosed. In some embodiments, the irrigation fluid containment system comprises a medical kit and/or an irrigation kit. In some embodiments, the irrigation fluid containment system comprises a medical basin and/or an irrigation basin. In some embodiments, the irrigation fluid containment system comprises an irrigation shield. In some embodiments, the irrigation fluid containment system comprises a suction hose.

CROSS REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application is a continuation of U.S. application Ser. No.14/268,448, filed May 2, 2014, which is a continuation of U.S.application Ser. No. 10/776,309, filed Feb. 11, 2004, which claims thebenefit of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/498,926, filed Aug. 29,2003 and of U.S. Provisional Application No. 60/446,649, filed Feb. 11,2003, the entireties of all which are incorporated herein by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

1. Field of the Invention

The present inventions are directed to surgical equipment, and inparticular, equipment used for irrigating wounds on the human body.

2. Description of the Related Art

Basins are widely used in the medical field to collect irrigation fluidduring an irrigation procedure of a wound on a patient. The wound mayconsist of a laceration or a cut that breaks a skin surface. Fracturesmay also require irrigation procedures. Medical personnel irrigate suchwounds to flush out any contaminants from the wound prior and/orsubsequent to conducting a medical procedure on the wound area.

Irrigation procedures are common in the medical field, particularly inthe field of orthopedic surgery, due to the fact that wounds are fairlycommon injuries, many of them requiring treatment at a medical facility,particularly deep cuts. Therefore, medical facilities tend to maintain asignificant number irrigation kits ready for use during surgicalprocedures. This is also true for emergency room facilities, wherepatients with wounds requiring immediate treatment generally arrive, andwhere the number of patients that will arrive throughout a day isimpossible to predict. However, the use of irrigation kits is notlimited to emergency room procedures and includes other medicalprocedures as well.

Existing irrigation kits typically include at least one basin to collectthe irrigation fluid wrapped in plastic or other material preventingdirt or other contamination from coming in contact with the basin.Wrapping the kit in plastic also allows the kits to be kept separatefrom each other, even if the kits are stacked one on top of another.Moreover, each kit generally includes various components necessary foran irrigation procedure so that medical personnel usually need not openmore than one irrigation kit to perform an irrigation procedure. Thecomponents, such as the basins, are usually sterilized.

When a wound requires irrigation, medical personnel open an irrigationkit to take the basin out of the kit, and place the basin in an areabelow the region of the patient's body where the wound is located. Then,with an irrigation device, the medical personnel directs an irrigationfluid, such as, but without limitation, water, saline, or a solutionincluding antibacterials and/or antibiotics at the wound area to removecontaminants, tissue and/or bone fragments from the wound.

The irrigation device preferably delivers irrigation fluid at a pressureand flow rate sufficient to effectively clean the wound area. Theirrigation device may have a shield connected to the device to reducethe amount of irrigation fluid that splashes off the wound field and/orin the direction of the treating medical personnel or on the floor. Theshield can further be used to focus the direction of the irrigationfluid on the wound when the device is placed close to the wound area.

Throughout the irrigation procedure, medical personnel adjust thelocation of the basin to collect the irrigation fluid after it strikesthe wound area. For example, one may place the basin just below the bodypart where the wound is located. Alternatively, one may place the basinin a location to which the irrigation fluid flows after striking thewound area.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

One aspect of at least one invention disclosed herein includes therealization that a significant amount of labor is unnecessarily wastedduring medical irrigation procedures. For example, in a typicalirrigation procedure, an open wound or fracture is irrigated with anirrigation device that discharges a stream of irrigation fluid.Typically, a doctor or surgeon manually aims the stream of irrigationfluid into the wound in order to dislodge and flush out contaminants,tissue and/or bone fragments. Occasionally, irrigation fluid will splashout of the wound when the stream of irrigation fluid strikes tissue orbone.

The amount of irrigation fluid used for such procedures varies. Forexample, more irrigation fluid is used for irrigating larger wounds thanthat used for irrigating smaller wounds. However, the amount ofirrigation fluid used may also vary depending on the depth of the wound,e.g., more irrigation fluid being used for deeper wounds. Additionally,the amount of irrigation fluid used may also vary depending on the typeand risk of potential contamination. For example, where a wound waspartially created during an accident such as impalement, more irrigationfluid may be used compared to that used to irrigate a wound created by asurgeon during a planned procedure or other surgical procedures.Finally, a surgeon may decide to irrigate one wound more than anotherfor various other reasons, such as, but without limitation, the amountof time the wound was open. Thus, it can be difficult to predict theamount of irrigation fluid that will be used to irrigate a wound.

During irrigation procedures performed for orthopedic surgery or othermajor medical procedures, a large amount of irrigation fluid is oftenused, e.g. one to ten liters. Thus, the basin used for collecting theirrigation fluid must be emptied repeatedly, requiring the irrigationprocedure to stop, unless additional personnel and/or basins are used.As a full basin is removed, and an empty basin is re-positioned, someirrigation fluid inevitably is spilled on the floor, thus requiringadditional towels and cleaning equipment to be used to keep the floorclean. If the towels or equipment is to be re-used, they must besterilized.

An additional consideration with conventional basins is the potentialfor contamination of medical personnel with the bodily fluids of thepatient that are collected in the basin during an irrigation procedure.If the irrigation fluid in the basin is spilled, the irrigation fluid,soft tissue, bone, and other debris contained therein may come incontact with medical personnel, exposing the personnel to contaminatedand potentially infectious matter. Such an exposure can result in thetransmission of diseases.

Thus, one aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed hereinincludes the realization that a basin that can be used alone or quicklymodified to be actively drained can decrease the risk of transmission ofdisease and save a significant amount of labor normally associated withsurgical irrigation procedures. Such a basin can reduce the number ofmedical personnel needed for an irrigation procedure and the totalman-hours required for the procedure.

Thus, in accordance with one embodiment of at least one inventiondisclosed herein, a basin comprises a sidewall portion and a bottomportion, at least one of the sidewall and bottom portions including atleast one convertible portion configured to provide a substantiallyleak-proof barrier in a first state and to form a drain in a secondstate through which the basin can be drained, such as, for example, butwithout limitation, a suction hose commonly used in operating rooms.

By including at least one convertible portion in the basin, the basinachieves the dual goals of providing a conventional multi-purpose basin,and providing a basin that can be modified for use during a large volumeirrigation procedure. For example, the basin can have any conventionalshape, including for example, but without limitation, round, square,rectangular, oval, C-shaped, L-shaped, and kidney. Thus, the basin canbe used for irrigation procedures just as any conventional basin isused, as well as non-irrigation related uses such as the temporaryplacement of instruments or devices. Additionally, the convertibleportion can be modified to drain the basin. As such, the basin providesa more convenient device for collecting and discarding irrigation fluidused during an irrigation procedure.

For example, in one embodiment the convertible portion includes afrangible portion, which can be broken to form an aperture. A suctionhose commonly used in an operating room can be connected to the apertureformed by the broken frangible portion. Thus, personnel handling thebasin will not have to stop the irrigation procedure to empty the basin,and are less likely to spill any irrigation fluid, either on the flooror on themselves, during the procedure.

In accordance with another embodiment of at least one of the inventionsdisclosed herein, a wound irrigation kit comprises a grommet that can bereadily fitted onto a basin in the kit to allow for draining of thebasin during the irrigation procedure. Accordingly, the kit isadvantageously versatile, allowing the basin to be used without thegrommet for a shortened irrigation procedure, as well as allowing thebasin to be readily modified to incorporate the draining attachment fora prolonged irrigation procedure. The grommet is defined by an axis andcomprises a fitting part, a sealing part and a channel disposed in thecenter of the fitting and the sealing part along the axis. The fittingpart is configured to be inserted through the convertible portion of thebasin so that the sealing part of the grommet forms a substantiallywatertight seal with the wall of the basin facing the cavity of thebasin. The fitting part protrudes out of the body of the basin in adirection away from the basin body. The fitting part also comprises anouter surface configured to securely receive a draining hose for activedraining of the basin.

In accordance with another embodiment of at least one of the inventionsdisclosed herein, a wound irrigation kit comprises a cannula optionallyhaving an adhesive surface. The cannula can optionally be made offlexible rubber. In another option, the cannula can be made of a hardplastic. Additionally, the cannula can optionally be configured to havea specific shape, such as, but without limitation, a C-shape, a Z-shapeand an L-shape. The adhesive surface can optionally comprise flangeintegrally formed with the cannula. In another option, the adhesivesurface can comprise the outer surface of the cannula itself.

In another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin is configured for irrigation of a wound generallylocated on a knee area of a human leg. For example, the wound may belocated on the leg over a kneecap. Additionally, the wound may belocated on an upper shin or a lower quadriceps region of the leg,proximally located to the knee area. Use of the basin is not limited towounds located on a front side of the leg, where the front side isdefined as the side on which the knee-cap is located. The basin can alsobe used in irrigation procedures on a side of the knee or a regionbehind the knee. Additionally, the basin can be used in irrigationprocedures on a wound on an upper calf or a lower hamstring region ofthe leg, proximally located to the knee area of the leg. Further, thebasin can also be used for irrigation procedures on open fractures ofother lower extremities.

The basin advantageously includes two recesses located on opposite sidesof the basin along an upper periphery of the basin. The recesses areconfigured to receive the leg at two regions proximal to the location ofthe wound or fracture, so that the wound or fracture is located over thecavity of the basin. Specifically, the recesses are sized so that one isbroader than the other, the broader recess configured to comfortablyaccommodate a larger region of the leg and the other recess configuredto comfortably accommodate a smaller region of the leg.

For example, the recesses are configured to receive a shin and a thighportion of the leg. If the wound is located on the kneecap, the recessesdisposed on the upper periphery of the basin are capable of receivingthe lower quadriceps region and the upper calf region of the leg.Moreover, one of the recesses is sized broader than the other recess,wherein the broader recess is sized to receive the thigh portion and theother recess is sized to receive the shin portion of the leg. Further,the recesses are preferably contoured in shape to comfortably receivethe shin and thigh portions. The recesses advantageously allow the basinto more effectively collect the irrigation fluid used to irrigate awound on the knee region during an irrigation procedure.

In still another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin is configured for irrigation of a wound generallylocated on a human elbow region. For example, the wound may be locatedon either side of the elbow. Additionally, the wound may be located on abiceps region, a triceps region or a forearm region proximal to theelbow.

The basin for use in irrigation of a wound on the elbow region also hastwo recesses on the upper periphery for receiving two regions of thearm. The recesses are further configured to more effectively collect theirrigation fluid used to irrigate a wound on the elbow region during anirrigation procedure.

In another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin is configured for irrigation of a wound generallylocated on a human ankle region. For example, the wound may be locatedon either side of the ankle. Additionally, the wound may be located on alower shin or a lower calf region of the leg proximal to the ankle.

The basin for use in irrigation of a wound on the ankle region (i e,ankle-basin) is configured similarly to the basin used to irrigate awound on the elbow region (i.e., elbow-basin). The ankle-basinpreferably has a taller sidewall and differently sized recesses than theelbow-basin. Specifically, the ankle-basin has two recesses on the upperperiphery for receiving two regions of the leg proximal to the ankle.The recesses are configured to more effectively collect the irrigationfluid used to irrigate a wound on the ankle region.

In another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosesherein, a basin comprises three recesses on the upper periphery. Thefirst and third recesses are optionally sized to receive a human leg,while the second recess is sized to receive a human upper arm.Therefore, according to this embodiment, the basin can be used toirrigate wounds on the knee and elbow regions. Similarly, the secondrecess can optionally be sized to receive a human foot. Therefore,according to this embodiment, the basin can be used to irrigate woundson the knee and ankle regions.

In still another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin can have four recesses. The recesses can optionally havethe same dimensions. In another option, only three of the four recessescan have the same dimensions. In still another option, only two of therecesses can have the same dimensions. In yet another option, therecesses can each have different dimensions. Accordingly, the basin canbe configured to receive various parts of human extremities.

In another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin comprises one recess on the upper periphery of thebasin. The recess is preferably configured to receive a human extremity.For example, the recess can be configured to receive a human forearm toirrigate wounds located below the elbow. In another example, the recesscan be configured to receive a human thigh region to irrigate woundslocated below the knee. The height of the basin sidewalls is greater ifthe basin is used to irrigate leg wounds than if it is used to irrigatearm wounds.

In another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin is configured for irrigation of a wound on a humanshoulder. The wound can be located on an upper arm region near thejuncture of the arm with the shoulder. The wound can also be located ona shoulder blade region or a pectoral region near the juncture with thearm.

The basin is preferably generally C-shaped, which advantageously allowsthe basin to be fitted around the upper arm region proximal to thewound. However, the basin can optionally have other shapes, such as, butwithout limitation, oval, round, square, kidney and horseshoe. The basinis further configured to have a contact region on an outer surface ofthe basin, wherein the contact region is advantageously configured tofit against a portion of a circumference of the upper arm. Accordingly,the basin is configured to more effectively collect the irrigation fluidused to irrigate a wound on the shoulder region during an irrigationprocedure.

In yet another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein, a basin is configured for irrigation of a wound on a human hip.The wound may be located on a buttock region or a lower hip region nearthe juncture with the buttock.

The basin advantageously has a contact region formed on the upperperiphery of the basin. Moreover, the contact region advantageouslymakes substantial contact with the human anatomy from just above a hipto just below a buttock. Further, the contact region is advantageouslyrecessed downward relative to the upper periphery of the basin, allowingthe upper periphery to operate as a splash shield during the irrigationprocedure.

Another embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosed hereinincludes providing a flexible irrigation shield that can be attached toan irrigation device, such as the irrigation device shown in U.S. Pat.No. 6,156,004. The shield can also be readily modified to vary itslength. Such a shield advantageously allows medical personnel to varythe splash-prevention area as needed for a specific irrigationprocedure. The irrigation shield can have a variety of shapes. Forexample, the shield can be in the shape of a circle or a square. Theshield can also be made of a variety of materials. For example, theshield can be made of a clear plastic.

Still another embodiment of at least one invention disclosed herein isdirected to an irrigation kit that provides a plurality of thecomponents useful for an irrigation procedure. The kit includes aplurality of basins, each basin configured to receive a body part thatis to be irrigated to more effectively collect an irrigation fluid inthe basin. Each basin comprises a body with a base and at least one walldefining a cavity configured to collect irrigation fluid. Additionally,each basin is advantageously configured to be readily modified foractive draining of the basin. Each basin optionally has at least oneconvertible portion on the body, which may optionally be a frangibleportion in the form of a circle. The convertible portion is preferablylocated near the bottom of the basin wall, wherein the convertibleportion may be modified to form a drain. Further, the base of each basinis preferably slanted at an angle toward an end of the basin proximal tothe convertible portion so that irrigation fluid collected in the basinadvantageously rolls toward the drain formed on the basin body when theconvertible portion is modified.

Another aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed hereinincludes the realization that during certain types of surgery, such asfor example, but without limitation, orthopedic surgery, the standardsuction tubing commonly used suffers from a clogging problem that can becaused by constrictions that form in the tubing during packaging andstorage. For example, typical operating rooms and other medicalfacilities use suction tubing having an inner diameter (I.D.) of about5-6 mm in a relaxed state. Additionally, all of the components which areconfigured to be connectable with the 5-6 mm I.D. tubing, are sized andshaped so that they will only allow debris to pass into the suctiontubing that is smaller than 5-6 mm.

During certain medical procedures, only liquids such as bodily fluids,humors, or irrigation fluid, is removed with a suction device. Thetypical 5-6 mm tubing does not suffer from a clogging problem when onlyliquids are being suctioned. However, during certain types of surgery,such as orthopedic surgery, for example, a significant amount of bodilytissues can be drawn into a suction device. It has been found that theconventional 5-6 mm I.D. tubing commonly used in operating rooms suffersfrom a bottle-necking problem, due in part to the packaging techniqueused in marketing the tubing. More specifically, the conventional 5-6 mmtubing commonly stocked for operating room use is folded into asterilized package. The tubing is soft and flexible. Typically, thetubing is between 5 and 20 feet long. Thus, when the tubing is folded,the tubing collapses in the area of each fold. After the tubing has beenstored for a significant amount of time, the collapsed portions of thetubing, usually in the area of the folds, remain in a partiallycollapsed state.

During an orthopedic operation, such as a joint replacement, many bonechips and clumps of tissue must be removed from the wound prior toclosing. Thus, an orthopedic surgeon typically uses a small suctiondevice having a suction tip with restricted openings, to suck outirrigation fluid, clumps of tissue, and bone chips. The restrictedopenings are sized so as to prevent large clumps of tissue and bonefragments from entering the suction hose. However, despite the size ofthe restricted opening, tissue clumps and bone fragments pass throughthe restricted opening which are large enough to form clogs atbottlenecks in the suction circuit. When a clog forms in the suctiontubing, it is often difficult to dislodge the debris causing the clog.Thus, it is often necessary to stop the procedure, shut off the vacuumdevice, replace the tubing, then continue the procedure. Thisinterruption can increase the labor hours required for certainprocedures, and thus represents additional costs suffered by the medicalfacility in performing the medical procedure.

It has been found that the partially collapsed portions of conventionalsuction tubing contributes significantly to the clogging problem.Another aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosed hereinincludes the realization that where a larger diameter suction tubing ispartially collapsed, the resulting cross sectional size of the collapsedportion can be large enough to reduce the likelihood of clogs fromforming at the partially collapsed portion.

Thus, in accordance with yet another aspect of at least one of theinventions disclosed herein, a suction hose kit comprises a sterilizedpackage enclosing tubing having an inner diameter of at least about 8mm. As such, the tubing can be made from the typically-used soft plasticmaterial and folded into a compact shape, without causing constrictionsthat cause the clogging problem associated with the conventional smallerdiameter suction tubing. Other objects, advantages, and features of thepresent invention will become readily apparent to those skilled in thisart from the ensuing detailed description of preferred embodimentsthereof.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a block diagram of an irrigation kit.

FIG. 1a is a perspective view of a cannula having an adhesive surface.

FIG. 2 is a perspective view of an irrigation basin for irrigating awound on a human extremity having a frangible portion.

FIG. 2a is an end view of the irrigation basin in FIG. 2 having recessesproximally disposed to the sidewalls.

FIG. 2b is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with ahole and a peel-off seal.

FIG. 2c is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with athreaded hole and a threaded plug.

FIG. 2d is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with ahole and a removable cork.

FIG. 2e is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with anipple and a removable cap.

FIG. 2f is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with anipple and a peel-off seal.

FIG. 2g is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with acannula.

FIG. 2h is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with aclamp.

FIG. 2i is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with aremovable clip holder.

FIG. 2j is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin having anaperture along the upper periphery and two cannulas.

FIG. 2k is an enlarged perspective view of an irrigation basin with arecess configured to engage a suction hose.

FIG. 3 is a front, top, and left side perspective view of a drainingattachment for use with an irrigation basin.

FIG. 3a is a rear, top, and left side perspective view of a drainingattachment having an aperture with a strainer.

FIG. 3b is a cross-sectional view of a draining attachment having aflared channel.

FIG. 4 is a cross-sectional view of the irrigation basin in FIG. 2incorporating the draining attachment of FIG. 3 to form a drain.

FIG. 5 is a perspective view of another irrigation basin for irrigatinga wound on a human extremity.

FIG. 6 is a perspective view of another irrigation basin for irrigatinga wound on a human extremity.

FIG. 6a is a top plan view of an irrigation basin for irrigating a woundon a human extremity having different shapes.

FIG. 6b is a top plan view of an irrigation basin for irrigating a woundon a human extremity having protrusions along the contact region.

FIG. 7 is a top plan view of the irrigation basin in FIG. 6.

FIG. 7a is a perspective view of another irrigation basin for irrigatinga wound on a human extremity.

FIG. 8 is a perspective view of another irrigation basin for irrigatinga wound on a human extremity.

FIG. 9 is a cross-sectional view of the irrigation basin taken alongline 9-9 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 10 is a side elevational view of the irrigation basin as viewedalong arrow 10 of FIG. 8.

FIG. 11 is a perspective view of another irrigation basin for irrigatinga wound on a human extremity.

FIG. 12 is a perspective view of an irrigation shield.

FIG. 13 is a perspective view of a conventional irrigation device.

FIG. 14 is a schematic elevational and sectional view of a suction jarcommonly used for collecting fluids suctioned from a wound of a patientduring an operation.

FIG. 15 is an enlarged side elevational view of a female adapter mountedto a suction hose commonly used in operating rooms.

FIG. 16 is a suction device commonly used in operating rooms andconfigured to engage with the female adapter illustrated in FIG. 15.

FIG. 17 is an exploded view of a sterilized package and a suction hosecommonly used in operating rooms.

FIG. 18 is a sectional view of the suction hose illustrated in FIG. 17,taken along line 18-18.

FIG. 19 is a sectional view of the suction hose illustrated in FIG. 17,taken along line 19-19.

FIG. 20 is a sectional view of an improved suction hose constructed inaccordance with an aspect of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

With reference to FIG. 1, a block diagram of an irrigation kit 1according to an embodiment of at least one of the inventions disclosedherein is illustrated therein. The irrigation kit 1 comprises a basin 10for irrigation of a wound on a human knee, a grommet 20, a basin 30 forirrigation of a wound on a human elbow or ankle, a basin 40 forirrigation of a wound on a human shoulder, a basin 50 for irrigation ofa wound on a human hip and an irrigation shield 60, each of which aredescribed in greater detail below.

The kit 1 preferably also comprises a cover 2 that envelops the basins10, 20, 30, 40, 50, the grommet 20 and the shield 60 together. The cover2 is configured to form a seal over the kit 1 to maintain the contentsof the kit 1 in a sterilized state. Additionally, the cover 2 isconfigured to be readily removed by a user for easy access to thecontents of the kit 1.

The cover 2 is preferably made of a material that can maintain thecontents of the kit 1 in a sterilized state. For example, the cover 2may be made of plastic. Alternatively, the cover 2 may be made ofreinforced paper or a cloth.

As discussed above, the kit 1 preferably comprises a plurality ofbasins, preferably one each of the basins 10, 30, 40, 50. However, thekit 1 can optionally include any number of each basin type.Additionally, the kit 1 preferably comprises an irrigation shield 60and/or optionally, a grommet 20.

The kit 1 optionally comprises a cannula 5 configured to operate as asuction hose. The cannula 5 is preferably made of a flexible plastic.The cannula 5 can optionally be made of a hard plastic, such as, but notlimited to, polyurethane or polypropylene. The cannula 5 can alsocomprise a variety of shapes, such as, but without limitation, aC-shape, a Z-shape, and an L-shape. At least one end of the cannula 5 isconfigured to engage a suction device.

The cannula 5 preferably comprises a cylindrical outer surface. However,the outer surface of the cannula 5 can comprise other shapes, such as,but without limitation, square and hexagonal.

With reference to FIG. 1a , the cannula 5 also preferably comprises anadhesive surface 5 a. For example, the adhesive surface 5 a can comprisethe outer surface of the cannula 5. In another example, the adhesivesurface 5 a can comprise a flange 5 a integrally formed on an outersurface of the cannula 5. In another example, the flange 5 a can beattached to the outer surface of the cannula 5 with, for example, butwithout limitation, an adhesive. The cannula 5 preferably comprises apeel-off cover over the adhesive surface 5 a. The cannula 5advantageously provides a simple attachment for use with any of thebasins described above to actively drain said basin.

During use, the user takes a kit 1 from a storage location when neededfor use in an irrigation procedure. The user removes the cover 2 of thekit 1 and removes its contents. The cover 2 may be removed by openingthe seal of the cover 2. Alternatively, the cover 2 may be removed bycutting the material of the cover 2 with a sharp instrument, such as aknife, scalpel, or scissors.

With reference to FIG. 2, an irrigation basin 10 for irrigating a woundon a human extremity is illustrated therein. For example, the basin 10can be used for irrigating a wound on a human knee. The basin 10comprises a base 11 having a generally rectangular shape and aperipheral wall 12. The basin 10 can have other shapes, such as, butwithout limitation, round, oval, kidney, and square. The wall 12 issubstantially at ninety degrees relative to a resting surface upon whichthe basin 10 rests. However, the wall 12 can be inclined at any desiredangle, inwardly or outwardly.

The base 11 and the wall 12 define a cavity 13 in the center of thebasin 10. The peripheral wall 12 also defines an inner surface 12 afacing toward the cavity 13 of the basin 10 and an outer surface 12 bfacing away from the cavity 13 of the basin 10. The basin 10 alsocomprises an upper periphery 14 having an inner edge 14 a and an outeredge 14 b. The outer edge 14 b preferably joins the upper periphery 14to the outer surface 12 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the periphery14 defines an inwardly extending flange having a width 12 c, supportedonly by the connection between the outer edge 14 b to the wall 12.Optionally, the flange can extend outwardly from the wall 12.Alternatively, the thickness of the wall 12 can be sufficient to formthe periphery 14. In another option, the inner edge 14 a joins the upperperiphery 14 to the outer surface 12 b and the periphery 14 is supportedonly by the connection between the inner edge 14 a to the wall 12.

The basin 10 is preferably made of a hard plastic material. For example,but without limitation, the basin 10 can be made of polyurethane orpolypropylene, among other materials. The material is preferablybiocompatible and hypo-allergenic. The basin 10 can also be made ofmetal, such as, but without limitation, stainless steel. Additionally,the basin 10 is preferably sterilized for use in medical procedures. Thebasin 10 can optionally be re-useable.

The outer surface 12 b comprises two end surfaces 18 a, 18 b arranged atlongitudinal ends 17 a, 17 b of a major axis 17, respectively, anddisposed generally perpendicular to the major axis 17. The outer surface12 b also comprises two side surfaces 18 c, 18 d extending between thelongitudinal ends 17 a, 17 b and generally parallel to the major axis17. As used herein, the term “major axis” generally refers to an axisthat passes through the basin 10 along the longitudinal direction of thebasin 10, i.e., along the greatest dimension or “length” of the basin10.

The basin 10 further comprises a first recess 15 configured to receive,for example, a human thigh and a second recess 16 configured to receive,for example, a human shin. The first recess 15 is preferably broaderthan the second recess 16. The first recess 15 is disposed along theupper periphery 14 at the longitudinal end 17 a of the basin 10. Therecess 15 bisects the end surface 18 a and the inner surface 12 a at thelongitudinal end 17 a.

The second recess 16 is disposed along the upper periphery 14 at thelongitudinal end 17 b of the basin 10. The recess 16 bisects the endsurface 18 b and the inner surface 12 a at the longitudinal end 17 b.The recesses 15, 16 are preferably aligned along the axis 17.

FIG. 2 illustrates the recesses 15, 16 as centrally disposed along theupper periphery 14 at the longitudinal ends 17 a, 17 b of the basin 10.However, as illustrated in FIG. 2a , the recesses 15,16 can optionallybe disposed along the periphery 14 proximally to one of the sidesurfaces 18 c, 18 d. The recesses 15, 16 preferably join to the upperperiphery 14 at edges 14 c.

The basin 10 also optionally includes at least one convertible portion19 communicating with an area near the bottom edge of the basin 10,where the bottom edge is the edge that contacts the resting surface. Oneconvertible portion 19 is shown in the illustrated embodiment. Theconvertible portion 19 can optionally be disposed on the base 11. In oneexample, the convertible portion 19 can be centrally disposed on thebottom of the base 11. In the illustrated embodiment, the convertibleportion 19 is disposed on the side surface 18 d.

As shown in FIG. 2, the base 11 of the basin 10 is generally horizontalrelative to the resting surface and rectangular in shape. Moreover, thebase 11 is substantially at zero degrees relative to the restingsurface. However, the base 11 of the basin 10 is not limited to therectangular shape or to being parallel to the resting surface. Forexample, the base 11 may be inclined at an angle greater than zerodegrees and configured to direct irrigation fluid on the base 11 in thedirection of the convertible portion 19. For example, the wall 12 caninclude downwardly protruding portions (not shown) which raise the end17 a relative to the end 17 b. Alternatively, the base 11 can be mountedto the wall 12 such that the end of the base 11 adjacent end 17 a ishigher than the end of the base 11 adjacent the end 17 b. In anotherexample, the base 11 can be configured to be adjustably inclined to aplurality of angles such that the end of the base 11 adjacent end 17 ais higher than the end of the base 11 adjacent the end 17 b. Forexample, but without limitation, the outer surface of the base 11 can beconfigured to releasably engage at least one shim (not shown) toselectively change the inclination of the base 11 relative to theresting surface. Thus, the kit 1 can include a basin 10 and at least oneshim to selectively vary the inclination of the base 11.

The peripheral wall 12 defines a thickness, which preferably is uniformalong the periphery of the wall 12. The thickness is configured toprovide the wall 12 with adequate structural rigidity to preventexcessive flexing of the wall 12. Accordingly, the thickness canoptionally have various sizes, each of which is capable of providing thewall 12 with adequate structural rigidity. For example, the thicknesscan be between 1 mm and 5 cm.

The wall 12 defines a maximum height 12 d along the periphery of thewall 12. The maximum height 12 d is defined as the distance from theresting surface to the upper periphery 14 of the wall 12. The wall 12also defines a minimum height 12 e at the longitudinal end 17 a of thebasin. The minimum height 12 e is defined as the distance from theresting surface to a minimum point 15 a of the first recess 15. Further,the wall defines a minimum height 12 f at the longitudinal end 17 b ofthe basin 10. The minimum height 12 f is defined as the distance fromthe resting surface to a minimum point 16 a of the second recess 16. Theheights 12 d, 12 e, 12 f are configured to be sufficiently large toallow the cavity 13 defined by the wall 12 and the base 11 to hold asubstantial volume of fluid.

The upper periphery 14 in the illustrated embodiment is generallyparallel to the axis 17. However, the upper periphery 14 can optionallybe inclined inwardly so as to drain liquid falling on the periphery 14back into the cavity 13. Additionally, the periphery 14 can have acurved surface so that the periphery 14 does not have the edges 14 a, 14b and to provide a seamless junction between the upper periphery 14 andthe outer surface 12 b.

The first recess 15, as illustrated in FIG. 2, extends from the edges 14c of the upper periphery 14 to the minimum point 15 a. Moreover, therecess 15 has a curved shape. However, the first recess 15 canoptionally have any contoured shape configured to receive, for example,a human thigh. Accordingly, the recess 15 is not limited to the arcuateshape illustrated in FIG. 2. The recess 15 further comprises a recesssurface 15 b and edges 15 c, 15 d. The recess 15 preferably joins to thewall 12 at the edge 15 d. Optionally, the recess 15 can join to the wall12 at the edge 15 c. The recess surface 15 b extends horizontally fromthe edge 15 c to the edge 15 d adjacent the end surface 18 a. The recesssurface 15 b can optionally be curved between the inner surface 12 a andthe end surface 18 a to provide a seamless junction between the surface15 b and the surfaces 12 a, 18 a without the edges 15 c, 15 d. Therecess surface 15 b can also optionally be inclined inwardly so as todrain liquid falling on the surface 15 b back into the cavity 13. Thefirst recess 15 may also have a contoured juncture with the upperperiphery 14 to provide a seamless junction between the recess surface15 b and the upper periphery 14, without the edges 14 c.

Similarly, the second recess 16 has a generally curved shape, asillustrated in FIG. 2, and extends from the edges 14 c of the upperperiphery 14 to the minimum point 16 a. Moreover, the second recess 16has a curved shape, which can be different than the curved shape of thefirst recess 15. Accordingly, the first recess 15 and the second recess16 can optionally be asymmetric. Additionally, the second recess 16 canoptionally have any contoured shape configured to receive, for example,a human shin. Therefore, the recess 16 is not limited to the arcuateshape illustrated in FIG. 2. The recess 16 further comprises a recesssurface 16 b and edges 16 c, 16 d. The recess 16 preferably joins to thewall 12 at the edge 16 d. Optionally, the recess 16 can join to the wall12 at the edge 16 c. The recess surface 16 b extends horizontally fromthe edge 16 c to the edge 16 d adjacent the end surface 18 b. The recesssurface 16 b can optionally be curved between the inner surface 12 a andthe end surface 18 b to provide a seamless junction between the surface16 b and the surfaces 12 a, 18 b without the edges 16 c, 16 d. Therecess surface 16 b can also optionally be inclined inwardly so as todrain liquid falling on the surface 16 b back into the cavity 13. Thesecond recess 16 may also have a contoured juncture with the upperperiphery 14 to provide a seamless junction between the recess surface16 b and the upper periphery 14, without the edges 14 c.

The convertible portion 19 can comprise a variety of structures andcombination of structures. Moreover, as noted above, one or a pluralityof convertible portions 19 can be disposed along the periphery of thebasin 10 or on the base 11.

For example, but without limitation, the convertible portion 19 cancomprise a hole 19 formed on the base 11 or the wall 12 covered with apeel-off seal 19 a, as illustrated in FIG. 2b . The peel-off seal 19 acan be disposed on the inner surface 12 a or the outer surface 12 b ofthe basin 10, or on the bottom of the base 11. Preferably, the seal 19 ais constructed of an adhesive applied to a thin light-weight plastic,such as, for example, but without limitation, a thermo-plastic. Theadhesive is configured to allow the thin plastic portion to bepeeled-off of the basin 10 by hand.

The basin 10 can optionally comprise a strainer portion (not shown) overthe hole 19, where the strainer is configured to capture bone chips,soft tissue, and other debris. The peel-off seal 19 a advantageouslyprovides a simple way of creating a drain on the basin 10 or anycontainer used for collecting contaminated and potentially infectiousfluids, such as, but without limitation, bed pans.

A kit 1 including the basin 10 can also comprise additional peel-offseals 19 a configured to cover the hole 19. The additional peel-offseals 19 a can be used to cover the hole 19 if a drain is no longerdesired.

In another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise a threadedhole 19 formed on the wall 12 and a threaded plug 19 a to plug the hole19, as illustrated in FIG. 2c . The plug 19 a and threaded hole 19advantageously allow medical personnel to readily modify the convertibleportion 19 to create a drain in the basin 10 by removing the plug 19 afrom the hole 19. Similarly, personnel can insert the plug 19 a into thehole 19 if a drain is no longer desired. The threaded hole 19 andthreaded plug 19 a advantageously provide a simple way of creating adrain on the basin 10 or any container used for collecting contaminatedand potentially infectious fluids, such as, but without limitation, bedpans.

In still another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise a hole19 formed on the wall 12 and a removable cork 19 a to cover the hole 19,as illustrated in FIG. 2d . The cork 19 a advantageously allows medicalpersonnel to readily modify the convertible portion 19 to create a drainin the basin 10 by removing the cork 19 a from the hole 19. Similarly,personnel can insert the cork 19 a into the hole 19 if a drain is nolonger desired. The hole 19 and removable cork 19 a advantageouslyprovide a simple way of creating a drain on the basin 10 or anycontainer used for collecting contaminated and potentially infectiousfluids, such as, but without limitation, bed pans.

In yet another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise a nipple19 extending outward from the side surface 18 d having a removable cap19 a, as illustrated in FIG. 2e . The nipple 19 can be molded onto theside surface 18 d. Optionally, the nipple 19 can be removably screwedonto a threaded hole on the side surface 18 d. The nipple 19 defines achannel 19 b extending therethrough to the inner surface 12 a of thebasin 10. The nipple 19 and cap 19 a advantageously provides a way tocreate a drain in the basin 10 by removing the cap 19 a from the nipple19, which allows fluid in the basin 10 to flow through the channel 19 bof the nipple 19. Similarly, medical personnel can place the cap 19 aover the nipple 19 if a drain is no longer desired. The nipple 19 andremovable cap 19 a advantageously provide a simple way of creating adrain on the basin 10 or any container used for collecting contaminatedand potentially infectious fluids, such as, but without limitation, bedpans.

In another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise a nipple 19having a strainer (not shown) and a removable cover 19 a, such as, butnot limited to, a peel-off seal 19 a, as illustrated in FIG. 2f . Asdiscussed above, the nipple 19 defines a channel 19 b extendingtherethrough to the inner surface 12 a. The peel-off seal 19 a ispreferably disposed over the protruding nipple 19. Alternatively, thepeel-off seal 19 a can be disposed on the inner surface 12 a over thestrainer. This configuration advantageously provides a convertibleportion 19 that is readily modifiable to create a drain in the basin 10by peeling off the peel-off seal 19 a, and that captures soft tissue,bone chips, and other debris during the draining of the basin 10. Thebasin 10 can also comprise additional peel-off seals 19 a configured tocover the nipple 19. The nipple 19 and peel-off seal 19 a advantageouslyprovide a simple way of creating a drain on the basin 10 or anycontainer used for collecting contaminated and potentially infectiousfluids, such as, but without limitation, bed pans.

In still another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise acannula 19 extending generally vertical to the resting surface from anaperture 19 a proximal to the base 11 to an aperture 19 b proximal toand disposed on a plane generally parallel to the periphery 14, asillustrated in FIG. 2g . However, the cannula 19 can optionally extendabove the periphery 14, as shown in phantom in FIG. 2 g.

The cannula 19 can optionally be integrally molded to the inner surface12 a of the basin 10. In another option, the cannula 19 can optionallybe integrally molded to the outer surface 12 b of the basin 10 andextend through the wall 12 such that the aperture 19 a is disposedgenerally along the base 11. In still another option, the aperture 19 bof the cannula 19 can face away from the basin 10. In yet anotheroption, the cannula 19 can be removably attached to the inner surface 12a of the basin 10.

The aperture 19 a proximal to the base 11 optionally comprises aperforated screen 19 c to prevent bone chips, soft tissue, and otherdebris from entering the cannula. A peel-off seal (not shown) canoptionally be disposed over the perforated screen 19 c. The aperture 19b proximal to the periphery 14 is configured to receive a fitting toactively drain the basin 10. Optionally, the aperture 19 b proximal tothe periphery can receive and hold a flexible tube to actively drain thebasin 10. As another option, the portion of the cannula 19 proximal tothe periphery 14 includes a nipple (not shown) sized to fit within asuction hose commonly used in operating rooms.

In yet another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise a clamp19, as illustrated in FIG. 2h . The clamp 19 can optionally beintegrally molded to the inner surface 12 a of the basin 10. In anotheroption, the clamp 19 can be removably attached to the inner surface 12 aof the basin 10. The clamp 19 comprises a contact surface 19 a definedby two arms 19 b about an axis. The contact surface 19 a is configuredto receive a tube, but allow said tube to be adjusted along said axis inresponse to a force. The arms 19 b are configured to hold the tubeagainst the contact surface 19 a. The clamp 19 advantageously provides asimple structure on the basin 10 that can be used in conjunction with atube or a fitting to actively drain the basin 10. Moreover, the tube canadvantageously be adjusted while the arms 19 b of the clamp 19 hold it.Medical personnel can thus adjust the tube to a position that providesthe best active draining of the basin 10.

In another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise a removableholder 19 d having at least one clip 19 e, as shown in FIG. 2i . Twoclips 19 e are shown in the illustrated embodiment. The clips 19 e areconfigured to engage and hold a conventional suction hose against theholder 19 d and proximal to the base 11 of the basin 10 for activedraining of the basin 10. The clips 19 e are optionally manuallyactuated to engage the suction hose. Similarly, the clips 19 e areoptionally manually actuated to release the hose when active draining isno longer desired. The holder 19 d is configured to fit over theperiphery 14 of the basin 10 such that it hangs generally vertical tothe resting surface. Thus, a kit 1 including an irrigation basin 10 caninclude a removable holder 19 d having at least one clip 19 e to allowthe basin 10 to be readily converted for draining.

In still another example, the convertible portion 19 can comprise anaperture 19 g formed on the upper periphery 14 of the basin 10, asillustrated in FIG. 2j . The aperture 19 g is configured to align with afirst cannula 19 h disposed under the periphery 14 such that an upperend of the first cannula 19 h abuts against an underside of theperiphery 14 about the aperture 19 g. The first cannula 19 h preferablyhas an outer diameter that is greater than the diameter of the aperture19 g. The upper end of the first cannula 19 h is configured to receive alower end of a second cannula 19 i that is inserted through the aperture19 g and through the upper end of the first cannula 19 h. The secondcannula 19 i preferably has an outer diameter that is smaller than aninner diameter of the first cannula 19 h. The cannulas 19 h, 19 i arepreferably made of a hard plastic. Optionally, the cannulas 19 h, 19 ican be made of a flexible rubber.

With reference to 2 k in yet another modification, the convertibleportion 19 can comprise a recess 19 j defined on the inner surface 12 aof the wall 12. The recess 19 j preferably is configured to releasablyengage a suction hose that is commonly used in an operating room ormedical facility. For example, the Sherwood Medical Company of St.Louis, Mo. manufacturers suction hose under the trade name “Argyle®non-conductive connecting tube with shore group female moldedconnectors”. The Argyle® suction hose has an inner diameter of about 6millimeters and an outer diameter of about 9 millimeters. Thus, therecess 19 j preferably is configured to releasably engage a hose havingan outer diameter of about 9 millimeters with an interference fit.

For example, the recess 19 j can include lateral edges 19 k, 19 l. Arear wall 19 m can connect the lateral edges 19 k, 19 l. Preferably, thespacing W between the lateral edges 19 k, 19 l is less than about 9millimeters. Optionally, the lateral edges 19 k, 19 l can include tabs(not shown) extending from the lateral edges 19 k, 19 l, thereby furtherreducing the minimum clearance between the lateral edges 19 k, 19 l.Thus, the standard Argyle® suction hose can be snapped into the recess19 j. Further, the lateral edges 19 k, 19 l and rear wall 19 m are sizedso as to provide an interference fit with the outer surface of suctionhose, such as the Argyle® 6 millimeter suction hose, or any othersuction hose. Thus, once the suction hose is snapped into the recess 19j, the hose is held in place through an interference fit therewith. Assuch, the basin 10 illustrated in FIG. 2k can be quickly andconveniently modified by attaching a commonly used suction hose to theconvertible portion 19.

Optionally, a strainer (not shown) can be attached to the lower end ofthe suction hose to be connected to the convertible portion 19. Thus,the strainer can prevent large clumps of tissue and bone fragments fromentering the suction hose, so as to reduce the likelihood of clogging.

According to the illustrated embodiment of the basin 10, the at leastone convertible portion 19 is in the form of an annularly extendingscore 19 defining a frangible portion disposed on the side surface 18 d.However, the score 19 can be disposed on any portion of the wall 12 orthe base 11. Additionally, a plurality of scores 19 can optionally bedisposed on the basin 10. The score 19 is configured to form an aperturethrough the wall 12 or base 11 to drain the cavity 13 following theremoval of the material bounded by the score 19 from the wall 12. Thescore 19 is preferably disposed near the bottom of the surface 18 d,close to the resting surface. However, the score 19 can be disposed inany location capable of providing an effective drain for the cavity 13upon the removal of the material bounded by the score 19 from the wall12. Additionally, though the score 19 preferably comprises a circularshape, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the score 19 can compriseany shape that provides an effective drain for the cavity 13. Forexample, the score 19 can comprise a slit.

In preparation for the irrigation of a knee wound, medical personnelremove the cover 2 from the kit 1 and remove the basin 10 from the kit.If the wound is in the knee area along the front part of the leg,personnel have the patient sit on an examination table with their legextended. The patient can optionally lie on his or her back if the woundis on the back of the knee. Medical personnel then place the basin 10under the extended leg of the patient so that the patient's thigh restson the first recess 15 and the patient's shin rests on the second recess16. Accordingly, the patient's wound is disposed over the cavity 13 ofthe basin 10. If the wound is in the knee area along the back part ofthe leg, personnel have the patient lay on their stomach with theirinjured leg extended. The personnel then place the basin 10 under thepatient's leg as described above. If the personnel wish to activelydrain the basin 10 during the irrigation procedure, the personnel modifythe convertible portion 19. As noted above, the basin 10 can comprise aplurality of convertible portions 19 disposed along the periphery of thebasin 10, allowing personnel to choose the convertible portion 19 thatbest accommodates the draining of the basin 10 or create additionaldrains. The draining device and active draining process are furtherdescribed below.

If the convertible portion 19 comprises a hole 19 formed on the wall 12covered with a removable cover, such as a peel-off seal, a threadedplug, and a cork, one can modify the convertible portion 19 by removingthe cover from the hole 19. This allows irrigation fluid in the cavity13 of the basin 10 to flow out of the basin through the hole 19.

In another example, if the convertible portion 19 comprises a nipple 19having a removable cap 19 a, personnel can modify the convertibleportion 19 by removing the cap 19 a from the nipple 19. In still anotherexample, if the convertible portion 19 comprises a nipple 19 having astrainer and a peel-off seal 19 a, personnel can modify the convertibleportion 19 by peeling off the seal 19 a. Personnel can then connect asuction hose to the nipple and connect the suction hose to a suctiondevice to actively drain the basin 10.

In yet another example, if the convertible portion 19 comprises acannula 19, personnel can insert a conventional tube into the cannula19. Personnel can then connect an end of the suction tube to a suctiondevice to actively drain the basin 10.

In another example, if the convertible portion 19 comprises a clamp 19,medical personnel can attach a conventional suction hose to the clamp 19so that an end of the suction hose is proximal to the base 11. Personnelcan then connect a second end of the hose to a suction device toactively drain the basin 10.

In still another example, if the convertible portion 19 comprises aremovable holder 19 d with at least one clip 19 e, medical personnel canattach the at least one clip 19 e to a conventional suction hose so thatan end of the suction hose is proximal to the base 11. Personnel canthen connect a second end of the hose to a suction device to activelydrain the basin 10.

In another example, if the convertible portion 19 comprises an aperture19 g formed on the upper periphery 14, personnel can place a firstcannula 19 h under the upper periphery 14 so that it aligns with theaperture 19 g. Personnel can then insert a second cannula 19 i throughthe aperture 19 g and the first cannula 19 h. Personnel can then connecta second end of the second cannula 19 i to a suction hose or a suctiondevice to actively drain the basin 10.

In yet another example, personnel can attach the adhesive surface 5 a ofthe cannula 5 to the inner surface 12 a of the basin 10 so that one endof the cannula 5 is proximal to the base 11 and the other end of thecannula 5 engages a suction device. In another option, the cannula 5 isconfigured to self-support against the inner surface 12 a of the basin10 without the adhesive surface 5 a. The suction device can then beoperated to actively drain the basin 10.

In the illustrated embodiment, where the convertible portion 19comprises a frangible portion 19, personnel can break the frangibleportion 19 to create a drain for the basin 10. Personnel can optionallyinsert a draining device into the drain and attach a suction hose to anend of the draining device. Personnel can then attach a second end ofthe suction hose to a suction device to actively drain the basin 10.

Irrigation fluid is then directed to the wound region to remove anycontaminants from the wound region. The irrigation fluid directed to thewound region subsequently collects in the cavity 13 of the basin 10. Therecesses 15, 16 that receive the thigh and shin of the patient,respectively, further improve the fluid-collection ability of the cavity13 by reducing escape of irrigation fluid through the juncture of thethigh and shin with the recesses 15, 16, respectively.

With reference to FIG. 3, the draining device is illustrated therein. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the draining device is a grommet 20. Thegrommet 20 can optionally comprise a peel-off seal (not shown). Thegrommet 20 can also optionally comprise a strainer (not shown). In theillustrated embodiment, the grommet 20 defines an axis 21 along thelongitude of the grommet 20, the axis 21 having two longitudinal ends 21a, 21 b. The grommet 20 comprises a sealing part 22 and a fitting part24. The grommet 20 is preferably made of a rigid material. For example,the grommet 20 can be made of a hard plastic. Optionally, the sealingpart 22 and the fitting part 24 can be made of different materials. Forexample, the sealing part 22 can be made of a flexible rubber and thefitting part 24 can be made of a hard plastic.

The sealing part 22 is disposed at the longitudinal end 21 b andcomprises a sealing surface 23 a facing in the direction of thelongitudinal end 21 a. The sealing surface 23 a is configured to providea substantially watertight seal with a mating surface (not shown) incontact with the sealing surface 23 a. The sealing part 22 alsocomprises a drain surface 23 b facing in the direction away from thelongitudinal end 21 a. The drain surface 23 b defines a drain aperture23 c preferably disposed in a substantially central position on thedrain surface 23 b. Both surfaces 23 a, 23 b extend about the axis 21.The sealing part also comprises a bottom surface 23 d proximal to thedrain aperture 23 c. The bottom surface 23 d is preferably a flatsurface.

As illustrated in FIG. 3a , the grommet 20 optionally comprises astrainer 23 e disposed on the drain surface 23 b over the drain aperture23 c. The strainer 23 e is configured to advantageously capture any bonedebris, soft tissue, and other debris.

The fitting part 24 comprises a stem 25 having an outer surface 25 aextending circumferentially about the axis 21. The fitting part 24further comprises a plurality of steps 26 along the outer surface 25 aof the stem 25, proximal to the longitudinal end 21 a. In theillustrated embodiment, the fitting part 24 of the grommet 20 has threesteps 26.

The plurality of steps 26 is configured to engage a tube disposed overthe stem 25 at the longitudinal end 21 a. For example, the steps 26 canbe sized to elastically deform and thereby engage and seal against theinner surface of a suction hose commonly used in an operating room. Thesteps 26 comprise a running surface 26 a and a stepping surface 26 b,where both surfaces 26 a, 26 b extend circumferentially about the axis21. The running surface 26 a is preferably angled downward, relative tothe axis 21, in the direction of the longitudinal end 21 a. The runningsurface 26 a of the plurality of steps 26 preferably has the same anglerelative to the axis 21 for each of the steps 26. Optionally, therunning surface 26 a has a different angle relative to the axis 21 foreach of the steps 26, the angle increasing with each of the steps 26 ina direction away from the longitudinal end 21 a. The stepping surface 26b is preferably at substantially a ninety degree angle relative to theaxis 21 and comprises a same height for each of the plurality of steps26. As used here, the height is the vertical distance between thestepping surfaces 26 b of two adjacent steps 26. Optionally, thestepping surface 26 b has a different height for each of the steps 26,the height increasing with each of the steps 26 in a direction away fromthe longitudinal end 21 a.

A channel 27, illustrated by the short dashed lines in FIG. 3, isdefined inside the grommet 20 about the axis 21 and extends from anendpoint of the stem at the longitudinal end 21 a through the sealingpart 22, to the drain aperture 23 c at the longitudinal end 21 b. Asillustrated in FIG. 3b , the channel 27 is optionally flared in thedirection of the longitudinal end 21 b such that the diameter of thechannel 27 at the longitudinal end 21 b and the diameter of the drainaperture 23 c is greater than the diameter of the channel 27 at thelongitudinal end 21 a. This feature advantageously provides a largerdrain area.

With reference to FIG. 4, use of the grommet 20 to provide a basin ofthe kit 1 with a drain for use in an active draining process isillustrated therein. In the illustrated embodiment, the grommet 20 isused to provide the basin 10 with a drain.

To form the drain on the basin 10, medical personnel first modify theconvertible portion 19 to form a drain. In the illustrated embodiment,the convertible portion 19 is a frangible portion 19 in the form of anannularly extending score 19. However, as discussed above, theconvertible portion 19 can comprise a variety of different structuresand combination of structures. In the illustrated embodiment, personnelpreferably remove the material by punching the material through the wall12, creating an aperture 28 through the wall 12, extending from the sidesurface 18 d to the inner surface 12 a. Medical personnel can use anynumber of instruments to remove this material. For example, personnelcan use their finger, or another instrument with an end surfacecorresponding to the surface of the material bound by the score 19.

Upon modification of the convertible portion 19, personnel insert thefitting part 24 of the grommet 20 through the aperture 28 at the innersurface 12 a so that the sealing surface 23 a contacts the inner surface12 a to form a substantially watertight seal. The bottom surface 23 doptionally contacts the base 11. Personnel subsequently direct a tube 40connected to a suction device (not shown) over the longitudinal end 21 aof the stem 25, so that the plurality of steps 26 substantially grip thetube 40. Medical personnel can then operate the suction device duringthe irrigation procedure to draw irrigation fluid from the cavity 13 ofthe basin 10, through the channel 27 and into the tube 40.

With reference to FIG. 5, the irrigation basin 30 for irrigating a woundon a human extremity is illustrated therein. For example, the basin 30can be used for irrigating a wound on a human elbow. The basin 30comprises a base 31 having a generally rectangular shape and aperipheral wall 32. The basin 30 can have other shapes, such as, butwithout limitation, round, oval, kidney, and square. The wall 32 issubstantially at ninety degrees relative to the resting surface. Thebase 31 and the wall 32 define a cavity 33 in the center of the basin30. The peripheral wall 32 also defines an inner surface 32 a facingtoward the cavity 33 of the basin 30 and an outer surface 32 b facingaway from the cavity 33 of the basin 30. The basin 30 also comprises anupper periphery 34 having an inner edge 34 a and an outer edge 34 b. Theouter edge 34 b preferably joins the upper periphery 34 to the outersurface 32 b. In the illustrated embodiment, the periphery 34 defines aninwardly extending flange having a width 32 c, supported only by theconnection between the outer edge 34 b to the wall 32. Alternatively,the thickness of the wall 32 can be sufficient to form the periphery 34.In another option, the inner edge 34 a joins the upper periphery 34 tothe outer surface 32 b and the periphery 34 is supported only by theconnection between the inner edge 34 a to the wall 32.

The basin 30 is preferably made of a hard plastic material. For example,but without limitation, the basin 30 can be made of polyurethane orpolypropylene, among other materials. The material is preferablybiocompatible and hypo-allergenic. The basin 30 can also be made ofmetal, such as, but without limitation, stainless steel. Additionally,the basin 30 is preferably sterilized for use in medical procedures. Thebasin 30 can optionally be re-useable.

The outer surface 32 b comprises two end surfaces 38 a, 38 b arranged atlongitudinal ends 37 a, 37 b of a major axis 37, respectively, andgenerally perpendicular to the major axis 37. The outer surface 32 balso comprises two side surfaces 38 c, 38 d extending between thelongitudinal ends 37 a, 37 b and generally parallel to the major axis37. As used herein, the term “major axis” generally refers to an axisthat passes through the basin 30 along the longitudinal direction of thebasin 30, i.e., along the greatest dimension or “length” of the basin30.

The basin 30 further comprises a first recess 35 configured to receive,for example, a human upper arm and a second recess 36 configured toreceive, for example, a human forearm. The first recess 35 is disposedalong the upper periphery 34 at a side of the basin 30 parallel to theaxis 37. The recess 35 bisects the side surface 38 d and the innersurface 32 a at the side parallel to the axis 37.

The second recess 36 is disposed along the upper periphery 34 at thelongitudinal end 37 b of the basin 30. The recess 36 bisects the endsurface 38 b and the inner surface 32 a at the longitudinal end 37 b.Further, the recesses 35, 36 join to the upper periphery 34 at aplurality of edges 34 c.

The basin 30 also optionally includes at least one convertible portion39 disposed on the outer surface 32 b of the wall 32 near the bottomedge of the basin 30, where the bottom edge is the edge that contactsthe resting surface. One convertible portion 39 is shows in theillustrated embodiment. The convertible portion 39 can optionally bedisposed on the base 31. In one example, the convertible portion 39 canbe centrally disposed on the bottom of the base 31. In the illustratedembodiment, the convertible portion 39 is disposed on the side surface38 d.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base 31 of the basin 30 is generallyhorizontal relative to the resting surface and rectangular in shape.Moreover, the base 31 is substantially at zero degrees relative to theresting surface. However, the base 31 of the basin 30 is not limited tothe rectangular shape or to being parallel to the resting surface. Forexample, the base 31 may be inclined at an angle greater than zerodegrees and configured to direct irrigation fluid on the base 31 in thedirection of the end surface 38 b nearest to the convertible portion 39.For example, the wall 32 can include downwardly protruding portions (notshown) which raise the end 37 a relative to the end 37 b. Alternatively,the base 31 can be mounted to the wall 32 such that the end of the base31 adjacent end 37 a is higher than the end of the base 31 adjacent theend 37 b. In another example, the base 31 can be configured to beadjustably inclined to a plurality of angles such that the end of thebase 31 adjacent end 37 a is higher than the end of the base 11 adjacentend 37 b.

The peripheral wall 32 defines a thickness, which preferably is uniformalong the periphery of the wall 32. The thickness is configured toprovide the wall 32 with adequate structural rigidity to preventexcessive flexing of the wall 32. Accordingly, the thickness canoptionally have various sizes, each of which is capable of providing thewall 32 with adequate structural rigidity. For example, the thicknesscan be between 1 mm and 5 cm.

The wall 32 also defines a maximum height 32 d along the periphery ofthe wall 32. The maximum height 32 d is defined as the distance from theresting surface to the upper periphery 34 of the wall 32. The wall 32also defines a minimum height 32 e at the side of the basin 30 parallelto the axis 37. The minimum height 32 e is defined as the distance fromthe resting surface to a minimum point 35 a of the first recess 35.Further, the wall defines a minimum height 32 f at the longitudinal end37 b of the basin 30. The minimum height 32 f is defined as the distancefrom the resting surface to a minimum point 36 a of the second recess36. The heights 32 d, 32 e, 32 f are configured to be sufficiently largeto allow the cavity 33 defined by the wall 32 and the base 31 to hold asubstantial volume of fluid.

The upper periphery 34 in the illustrated embodiment is generallyparallel to the axis 37. However, the upper periphery 34 can optionallybe inclined inwardly so as to drain liquid falling on the periphery 34back into the cavity 33. Additionally, the periphery 34 can have acurved surface so that the periphery 34 does not have the edges 34 a, 34b and to provide a seamless junction between the upper periphery 34 andthe outer surface 32 b.

The first recess 35, as illustrated in FIG. 5, extends from the edges 34c of the upper periphery 34 to the minimum point 35 a. Moreover, therecess 35 has a curved shape. However, the first recess 35 mayoptionally have any contoured shape configured to receive, for example,a human upper arm. Accordingly, the recess 15 is not limited to thearcuate shape illustrated in FIG. 5. The recess 35 further comprises arecess surface 35 b and edges 35 c, 35 d. The recess 35 preferably joinsto the wall 32 at the edge 35 d. Optionally, the recess 35 can join tothe wall 32 at the edge 35 c. In the illustrated embodiment, the recesssurface 35 b extends horizontally from the edge 35 c to the edge 35 dadjacent the side surface 38 d. The recess surface 35 b can optionallybe curved between the inner surface 32 a and the side surface 38 d toprovide a seamless junction between the surface 35 b and the surfaces 32a, 38 d without the edges 35 c, 35 d. The recess surface 35 b can alsooptionally be inclined inwardly so as to drain liquid falling on thesurface 35 b back into the cavity 33. The first recess 35 can also havea contoured juncture with the upper periphery 34 to provide a seamlessjunction between the recess surface 35 b and the upper periphery 34,without the edges 34 c.

Similarly, the second recess 36 has a generally curved shape, asillustrated in FIG. 5, and extends from the edges 34 c of the upperperiphery 34 to the minimum point 36 a. However, the second recess 36may optionally have any contoured shape configured to receive, forexample, a human forearm. Accordingly, the recess 36 is not limited tothe arcuate shape illustrated in FIG. 5. The recess 36 further comprisesa recess surface 36 b and edges 36 c, 36 d. The recess 36 preferablyjoins to the wall 32 at the edge 36 d. Optionally, the recess 36 canjoin to the wall 32 at the edge 36 c. The recess surface 36 b extendshorizontally from the edge 36 c to the edge 36 d adjacent the endsurface 38 b. The recess surface 36 b can optionally be curved betweenthe inner surface 32 a and the end surface 38 b to provide a seamlessjunction between the surface 36 b and the surfaces 32 a, 38 b withoutthe edges 36 c, 36 d. The recess surface 36 b can also optionally beinclined inwardly so as to drain liquid falling on the surface 36 b backinto the cavity 33. The second recess 26 can also have a contouredjuncture with the upper periphery 34 to provide a seamless junctionbetween the recess surface 36 b and the upper periphery 34, without theedges 34 c.

As described above with respect to the basin 10, the convertible portion39 can similarly comprise a variety of structures and combination ofstructures. Moreover, a plurality of convertible portions 39 canoptionally be disposed along the periphery of the wall 32 and the base31. For example, but without limitation, the convertible portion 39 cancomprise a hole 39 formed on the wall 32 covered with a removable cover,such as, but not limited to, a peel-off seal. The cover can be attachedto the side wall 38 d, for example, with an adhesive.

In another example, the convertible portion 39 can comprise a threadedhole 39 formed on the wall 32 with a threaded plug that covers the hole39. In still another example, a removable cork can be used to cover thehole 39.

In yet another example, the convertible portion 39 can comprise a nipple39 having a removable cap, the nipple 39 extending outward from the sidewall 38 d. The nipple 39 can be molded onto the side wall 38 d.Optionally, the nipple 39 can be removably screwed onto the side wall 38d. In another example, the convertible portion 39 can comprise a nipple39 having a strainer and a removable cover, such as, but not limited toa peel-off seal.

In still another example, the convertible portion 39 can comprise aclamp 39 configured to receive a suction hose, such as a conventionalsuction hose found in a medical facility, where the clamp 39 isintegrally molded or removably attached to the inner surface 32 a of thebasin 30. In another example, the convertible portion 39 can comprise aremovable holder comprising at least one clip disposed over the wall 32of the basin 30. In still another example, the convertible portion 39can comprise an aperture on the upper periphery 34 configured to receivea cannula.

According to the illustrated embodiment of the basin 30, the convertibleportion 39 is in the form of an annularly extending score 39 defining afrangible portion disposed on the side surface 38 d. However, the score39 can be disposed on any portion of the wall 32 or the base 31.Additionally, a plurality of scores 39 can optionally be disposed on thebasin 30. The score 39 is configured to form an aperture through thewall 32 or base 11 to drain the cavity 33 following the removal of thematerial bounded by the score 39 from the wall 32. The score 39 ispreferably disposed near the bottom of the surface 38 d, close to theresting surface. However, the score 39 can be disposed in any locationcapable of providing an effective drain for the cavity 33 upon theremoval of the material bounded by the score 39 from the wall 32.Additionally, though the score 39 preferably comprises a circular shape,as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the score 39 can comprise anyshape that provides an effective drain for the cavity 33. For example,the score 39 can comprise a slit.

In preparation for the irrigation of an elbow wound, medical personnelremove the cover 2 from the kit 1 and remove the basin 30 from the kit.If the wound is in the elbow area, medical personnel have the patientplace the patient's upper arm on the first recess 35 and the patient'sforearm on the second recess 36 so that the wound is disposed over thecavity 33 of the basin and faces away from the base 31 of the basin 30.

If medical personnel wish to actively drain the basin 30 during theirrigation procedure, as described above with respect to the basin 10,the personnel modify the convertible portion 39 to create a drain in thebasin 30. The basin 30 is then ready to be actively drained. In theillustrated embodiment, where the convertible portion 39 comprises afrangible portion 39, medical personnel can break the frangible portion39 to create a drain for the basin 30. Personnel can optionally insert adraining device, such as the grommet 20, into the drain and attach asuction hose to the draining device. Personnel can then attach a secondend of the suction hose (not shown) to a suction device (not shown) toactively drain the basin 30. As noted above, the basin 30 can comprise aplurality of convertible portions 39 disposed along the periphery of thebasin 30, allowing personnel to choose the convertible portion 39 thatbest accommodates the draining of the basin 30 or create additionaldrains. The grommet 20 and active draining process are described above.

Medical personnel can also actively drain the basin 30 by attaching theadhesive surface 5 a of the cannula 5 to the inner surface 32 a of thebasin 30 such that an end of the cannula 5 is proximal to the base 31.In another option, the cannula 5 is configured to self-support againstthe inner surface 32 a of the basin 30 without an adhesive surface.Personnel can then attach a second end of the cannula 5 to a suctiondevice, as described above.

Irrigation fluid is then directed to the wound region to remove anycontaminants from the wound region. The irrigation fluid directed to thewound region subsequently collects in the cavity 33 of the basin 30. Therecesses 35, 36 further improve the fluid-collection ability of thecavity 33 by reducing escape of irrigation fluid through the juncture ofthe patient's arm with the recesses 35, 36.

The basin 30, as described above, can optionally be configured forirrigating wounds on a human ankle. The first recess 35 can beconfigured to receive, for example, a human shin, and the second recess36 can be configured to receive, for example, a human foot.Additionally, the maximum height 32 d is greater for the basin 30configured for irrigation of an ankle wound than for irrigation of anelbow wound.

To irrigate an ankle wound along the outer side of the leg, medicalpersonnel first have the patient sit on the examination table with hisor her leg extended. Medical personnel then place the basin 30 under theextended leg of the patient so that the inner side of the patient's legalong the shin region rests on the first recess 35 of the basin 30 andthe inner side of the patient's foot rests on the second recess 36 ofthe basin 30. As used here, the outer side means the side facing awayfrom the patient's body and the inner side means the side facing towardthe patient's other leg when the patient stands-up straight.Accordingly, the patient's wound is disposed over the cavity 33 of thebasin 30. Likewise, if the wound is in the ankle area along the innerside of the leg, personnel have the patient sit on the examination tablewith their leg extended. Personnel then place the basin 30 under theextended leg of the patient so that the outer side of the patient's legalong the shin region rests on the first recess 35 of the basin 30 andthe outer side of the patient's foot rests on the second recess 36 ofthe basin 30.

In another embodiment, the basin 30, as described above, can optionallycomprise a third recess 36′ disposed along the upper periphery 34opposite the second recess 36, as illustrated by the dashed lines inFIG. 5. The third recess 36′ has the same general structure as thesecond recess 36 and would be identified with similar reference numerals(not shown).

The second and third recess 36, 36′ can optionally be configured toreceive an upper leg portion of a human anatomy, such as a thigh, and alower leg portion, such as a calf, respectively. The first recess 35 canbe configured to receive, for example, an upper arm portion.Accordingly, the basin 30 can be used for irrigating wounds on the kneearea and the elbow area of the human anatomy. Optionally, the firstrecess 35 can be configured to receive a human foot, so that the basin30 can be used for irrigating wounds on the knee area and the ankle areaof the human anatomy.

In another embodiment, the basin 30 can optionally comprise a fourthrecess 35′, disposed along the periphery 34 opposite the first recess35. The fourth recess 35′ has the same general structure as the firstrecess 35 and would be identified with similar reference numerals (notshown). The recesses 35, 36 35′, 36′ can optionally be sized to have thesame dimensions. The recesses 35, 36, 35′, 36′ can also optionally besized such that only two of the recesses 35, 36, 35′, 36′ share the samedimensions. In another example, the recesses 35, 36, 35′, 36′ can besized such that only three of the four recesses 35, 36, 35′, 36′ sharethe same dimensions. In still another example, the recesses 35, 36, 35′,36′ can each have different dimensions. As used herein, the dimension ofa recess includes the breadth and depth of the recess. For example, thedepth of the first recess is the difference between the maximum height32 d and the minimum height 32 e of the first recess 35.

With reference to FIGS. 6 and 7, an irrigation basin 40 for irrigating awound on a human extremity is illustrated therein. For example, thebasin 40 can be used for irrigating a wound on a human shoulder. Thebasin 40 preferably comprises a base 41 having a generally C-shape and aperipheral wall 42. However, the base 41 can have a variety of othershapes, as illustrated in FIG. 6a . The wall 42 is substantially atninety degrees relative to the resting surface. The basin 40 preferablyalso comprises a C-shape. However, the basin 40 can optionally compriseother shapes, such as round, oval, kidney, square and horseshoe. Thebase 41 and the wall 42 define a cavity 43 in the basin 40. Theperipheral wall 42 also defines an inner surface 42 a facing toward thecavity 43 of the basin 40 and an outer surface 42 b facing away from thecavity 43 of the basin 40. The basin 40 also comprises an upper edge 44.The basin 40 further comprises longitudinal ends 46 a, 46 b.

The basin 40 is preferably made of a hard plastic material. For example,but without limitation, the basin 40 can be made of polyurethane orpolypropylene, among other materials. The material is preferablybiocompatible and hypo-allergenic. The basin 40 can also be made ofmetal, such as, but without limitation, stainless steel. Additionally,the basin 40 is preferably sterilized for use in medical procedures. Thebasin 40 can optionally be re-useable.

The outer surface 42 b comprises a contact region 48 a and a surroundingregion 48 b, wherein both regions 48 a, 48 b extend around an axis 47.The outer surface 42 b further comprises two end regions 48 c, each ofthe end regions disposed on either side of the axis 47. In theillustrated embodiment, the end regions 48 c extend on either side ofthe axis 47 so that the basin 40 has a C-shape. However, the end regions48 c can optionally extend further on either side of the axis 47 so thatthe basin 40 has a horseshoe shape, as illustrated in FIG. 6 a.

The contact region 48 a is preferably contoured to receive, for example,a human upper arm region near the shoulder. The contact region 48 aoptionally comprises a plurality of protrusions 48 d extending outwardlyfrom the contact region 48 a toward the axis 47, as illustrated in FIG.6b . As illustrated in FIGS. 6 and 7, the contact region 48 a preferablyhas an arcuate shape defining a breadth 48 e and a depth 48 f. Thebreadth 48 e is preferably six inches, and more preferably eight inches.The depth 48 f is preferably eight inches.

The contact region 48 a is not limited to the arcuate shape, but canhave any shape capable of receiving, for example, the upper arm.Additionally, an upper edge 44 a of the contact region 48 a canoptionally be inclined toward the axis 47 such that the upper edge 44 aof the contact region 48 a is closer to the axis 47 than a lower edge 44b of the contact region 48 a, as illustrated by the dashed lines inFIGS. 6 and 7. The illustrated embodiment further shows the end regions48 c as having a curved shape. However, the end regions 48 c can haveany number of shapes, such as, but without limitation, a generally flatshape, as illustrated by the dashed line in FIG. 7.

The basin 40 also optionally includes at least one convertible portion49 disposed on the outer surface 42 b of the wall 42 near the bottomedge of the basin 40, where the bottom edge is the edge that contactsthe resting surface. One convertible portion 49 is shown in theillustrated embodiment. The convertible portion 49 can optionally bedisposed on the base 41. In one example, the convertible portion 49 canbe centrally disposed on the bottom of the base 41. In the illustratedembodiment, the convertible portion 49 is disposed on the surroundingregion 48 b.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base 41 of the basin 40 is generallyhorizontal relative to the resting surface and extends around the axis47. Moreover, the base 41 is substantially at zero degrees relative tothe resting surface. However, the base 41 is not limited to beingparallel to the resting surface. For example, the base 41 may beinclined at an angle greater than zero degrees and configured to directirrigation fluid on the base 41 in the direction of the surroundingregion 48 b nearest to the convertible portion 49. Alternatively, thebase 41 can be mounted to the wall 42 such that the end of the base 41adjacent longitudinal end 46 a is higher than the end of the base 41adjacent the end 46 b. In another example, the base 41 can be configuredto be adjustably inclined to a plurality of angles such that the end ofthe base 41 adjacent longitudinal end 46 a is higher than the end of thebase 41 adjacent the end 46 b.

The peripheral wall 42 defines a thickness 42 c, which preferably isuniform along the periphery of the wall 42. The thickness 42 c isconfigured to provide the wall 42 with adequate structural rigidity toprevent excessive flexing of the wall 42. Accordingly, the thickness 42c can optionally have various sizes, each of which is capable ofproviding the wall 42 with adequate structural rigidity. For example,the thickness 42 c can be between 1 mm and 5 cm.

The wall 42 also defines a maximum height 42 d along the periphery ofthe wall 42. The maximum height 42 d is defined as the distance from theresting surface to the upper edge 44 of the wall 42. The height 42 d isconfigured to be sufficiently large to allow the cavity 43 to hold asubstantial volume of fluid.

As described above with respect to the basin 10, the convertible portion49 can similarly comprise a variety of structures and combination ofstructures. Moreover, a plurality of convertible portions 49 canoptionally be disposed along the periphery of the wall 42 and the base41. For example, but without limitation, the convertible portion 49 cancomprise a hole 49 formed on the wall 42 covered with a removable cover,such as, but not limited to, a peel-off seal. The cover can be attachedto the outer surface 42 b, for example, with an adhesive.

In another example, the convertible portion 49 can comprises a threadedhole 49 formed on the wall 42 with a threaded plug that covers the hole49. In still another example, a removable cork can be used to cover thehole 49.

In yet another example, the convertible portion 49 can comprise a nipple49 having a removable cap, the nipple 49 extending outward from theouter surface 42 b. The nipple 49 can be molded onto the outer surface42 b. Optionally, the nipple 49 can be removably screwed onto the outersurface 42 b. In another example, the convertible portion 49 cancomprise a nipple 49 having a strainer and a removable cover, such as,but not limited to a peel-off seal.

In still another example, the convertible portion 49 can comprise aclamp 49 configured to receive a suction hose, such as a conventionalsuction hose found in a medical facility, where the clamp 49 isintegrally molded or removably attached to the inner surface 42 a of thebasin 40. In another example, the convertible portion 49 can comprise aremovable holder having at least one clip disposed over the wall 42 ofthe basin 40.

According to the illustrated embodiment of the basin 40, the convertibleportion 49 is preferably in the form of an annularly extending score 49defining a frangible portion disposed on the surrounding region 48 b.However, the score 49 can be disposed on any portion of the wall 42 orthe base 41. Additionally, a plurality of scores 49 can optionally bedisposed on the basin 40. The score 49 is configured to form an aperturethrough the wall 42 or base 41 to drain the cavity 43 following theremoval of the material bounded by the score 49 from the wall 42. Thescore 49 is preferably disposed near the bottom of the surroundingregion 48 b, close to the resting surface. However, the score 49 can bedisposed in any location capable of providing an effective drain for thecavity 43 upon the removal of the material bounded by the score 49 fromthe wall 42. Additionally, though the score 49 preferably comprises acircular shape, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the score 49 cancomprise any shape that provides an effective drain for the cavity 43.For example, the score 49 can comprise a slit.

In preparation for the irrigation of a shoulder wound, medical personnelplace the basin 40 around the patient's upper arm region so that thecontact region 48 a comes in contact with the patient's upper arm and sothe cavity 43 faces toward the location of the wound on the patient'sshoulder region. Personnel preferably place the basin 40 on thepatient's upper arm so that the contact region 48 a is in contact withthe upper arm surface nearest to the wound and the end regions 48 c facein a direction away from the wound.

If medical personnel wish to actively drain the basin 40 during theirrigation procedure, the personnel modify the convertible portion 49,as described above with respect to the basin 10, to create a drain inthe basin 40. The basin 40 is then ready to be actively drained. In theillustrated embodiment, where the convertible portion 49 comprises afrangible portion 49, personnel can break the frangible portion 49 tocreate a drain for the basin 40. Personnel can optionally insert adraining device, such as the grommet 20, into the drain and attach asuction hose (not shown) to the draining device. Personnel can thenattach a second end of the suction hose to a suction device (not shown)to actively drain the basin 40. As noted above, the basin 40 cancomprise a plurality of convertible portions 49 disposed along theperiphery of the basin 40, allowing personnel to choose the convertibleportion 49 that best accommodates the draining of the basin 40 or createadditional drains.

Medical personnel can also actively drain the basin 40 by attaching theadhesive surface 5 a of the cannula 5 to the inner surface 42 a of thebasin 40 such that an end of the cannula 5 is proximal to the base 41.Optionally, the cannula 5 is configured to self-support against theinner surface 42 a of the basin 40 without an adhesive surface.Personnel can then attach a second end of the cannula 5 to a suctiondevice, as described above.

Irrigation fluid is then directed to the wound region to remove anycontaminants from the wound region. The irrigation fluid directed to thewound region subsequently collects in the cavity 43 of the basin 40.

The basin 40, as described above, can optionally be configured for theirrigation of wounds on a variety of human extremities. For example, thecontact region 48 a can be configured to receive a lower leg region. Inanother example, the contact region 48 a can be configured to receive anupper leg human region. The maximum height 42 d of the wall 42 ispreferably taller if the basin is configured for irrigation of legwounds than arm wounds.

In addition, the basin 40 can optionally be configured for theirrigation of wounds on a human knee while the knee is in a flexedposition. For example the basin 40 can comprise an upper periphery (notshown) having an inner edge and an outer edge, where the outer edgejoins the upper periphery to the wall 42. The periphery can be aninwardly extending flange having a width and supported only by theconnection between the outer edge to the wall 42. In another option, theperiphery can be supported only by the connection between the inner edgeto the wall 42.

The basin 40 can further comprise a recess (not shown) similar to thefirst recess 15 described above with respect to the basin 10. The recessis preferably disposed along the upper periphery and is configured toreceive, for example, a human thigh. The recess bisects the wall 42preferably at a location opposite the contact region 48 a, which ispreferably U-shaped and configured to receive a lower leg region, sothat the recess and contact region 48 a are aligned. The recess alsopreferably has a generally arcuate shape. However, the recess can haveany contoured shape configured to receive a thigh. The lower edge 44 bof the contact region 48 a can optionally be inclined toward the axis 47such that the lower edge 44 b is closer to the axis 47 than the upperedge 44 a of the contact region. The basin 40 can thus be advantageouslyconfigured for use in irrigation of a wound on a flexed knee, resultingin a thorough cleaning of a knee wound.

To irrigate a wound on a flexed knee, the user places the basin 40 underthe patient's leg, such that the patient's upper leg region, such as athigh, rests on the recess. The user also has the patient flex theinjured knee such that the patient's lower leg region, such as the calf,comes in contact with the contact region 48 a. Accordingly, the wound isdisposed over the basin 40. Irrigation fluid is then directed to thewound region as previously described.

In another embodiment, the basin 40 can comprise the general shape of akidney basin, as illustrated in FIG. 7a . The basin 40 has a contactregion 48 a and a surrounding region 48 b. The basin 40 preferablydefines an aperture 45 along the contact region for receiving a humanextremity to irrigate a wound on the extremity.

To irrigate a wound on a human extremity with the basin 40 illustratedin FIG. 7a , medical personnel place the basin 40 under the patient'sextremity so that a region of the extremity rests in the aperture 45 andthe wound or fracture is disposed over the cavity 43 of the basin 40.Personnel then direct irrigation fluid to the wound as previouslydescribed.

With reference to FIG. 8, a basin 50 for irrigating a wound on a humanextremity is illustrated therein. For example, the basin 50 can be usedfor irrigating a wound on a human hip. The basin 50 comprises a base 51,preferably having a generally kidney shape, and a peripheral wall 52.The wall 52 is preferably substantially at ninety degrees relative tothe resting surface. The base 51 and the wall 52 define a cavity 53 inthe basin 50. The peripheral wall 52 also defines an inner surface 52 afacing toward the cavity 53 and an outer surface 52 b facing away fromthe cavity 53 of the basin 50. The basin 50 also comprises an upper edge54 and longitudinal ends 58 a, 58 b. The basin 50 further comprises acurved region 55 a and an arched region 55 b disposed opposite thecurved region 55 a.

The basin 50 is preferably made of a hard plastic material. For example,but without limitation, the basin 50 can be made of polyurethane orpolypropylene, among other materials. The material is preferablybiocompatible and hypo-allergenic. The basin 50 can also be made ofmetal, such as, but without limitation, stainless steel. Additionally,the basin 50 is preferably sterilized for use in medical procedures. Thebasin 50 can optionally be re-useable.

The basin 50 also optionally includes at least one convertible portion59 disposed on the outer surface 52 b of the wall 52 near the bottomedge of the basin 50, where the bottom edge is the edge that contactsthe resting surface. One convertible portion 59 is shown in theillustrated embodiment. The convertible portion 59 can optionally bedisposed on the base 51. In one example, the convertible portion 59 canbe centrally disposed on the bottom of the base 51. In the illustratedembodiment, the convertible portion 59 is disposed on the curved region55 a.

In the illustrated embodiment, the base 51 of the basin 50 is generallyhorizontal relative to the resting surface and defines an edge 51 a atthe juncture with the inner surface 52 a. Moreover, the base 51 issubstantially at zero degrees relative to the resting surface. However,the base 51 is not limited to being parallel to the resting surface. Forexample, the base 51 may be inclined at an angle greater than zerodegrees and configured to direct irrigation fluid on the base 51 in thedirection of the curved region 55 a nearest to the convertible portion59. For example, the wall 52 can include downwardly protruding portions(not shown) which raise the end 58 a relative to the end 58 b.Alternatively, the base 51 can be mounted to the wall 52 such that theend of the base 51 adjacent end 58 a is higher than the end of the base51 adjacent the end 58 b. Additionally, the base 51 may join to theinner surface 52 a through a contoured juncture so that the base 51 doesnot define the edge 51 a, as illustrated in FIG. 9. In another example,the base 51 can be configured to be adjustably inclined to a pluralityof angles such that the end of the base 51 adjacent end 58 a is higherthan the end of the base 51 adjacent the end 58 b.

The peripheral wall 52 defines a thickness 52 c, which preferably isuniform along the periphery of the wall 52. The thickness 52 c isconfigured to provide the wall 52 with adequate structural rigidity toprevent excessive flexing of the wall 52. Accordingly, the thickness 52c may optionally have various sizes, each of which is capable ofproviding the wall 52 with adequate structural rigidity. For example,the thickness can be between 1 mm and 5 cm.

The upper edge 54 of the wall 52 comprises a recessed edge 56 a thatpreferably extends along the arched region 55 b of the basin 50 betweenjunctures 54 b. The recessed edge 56 a is recessed downward relative tothe upper edge 54. In the illustrated embodiment, the junctures 54 bthat connect the upper edge 54 to the recessed edge 56 a have acontoured shape. For example, the junctures 54 b are curved to provide acontinuous transition between the recessed edge 56 a and the upper edge54. However, the junctures can have any number of shapes, such as, butwithout limitation, a step shape as illustrated by the dashed line inFIG. 8.

The basin 50 further comprises an inner edge 56 b formed on the innersurface 52 a and disposed between the junctures 54 b. The inner edge 56b is recessed downward relative to the upper edge 54 as illustrated inFIGS. 9 and 10. The inner edge 56 b may optionally also be recesseddownward relative to the recessed edge 56 a as illustrated in FIG. 9. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the junctures 54 b that connect the upperedge 54 to the inner edge 56 b have a contoured shape to provide acontinuous transition between the inner edge 56 b and the upper edge 54.However, the junctures 54 b can have any number of shapes as discussedabove.

The recessed edge 56 a and the inner edge 56 b define a contact region57 that extends between the edges 56 a, 56 b. In the illustratedembodiment, the contact region 57 is an outwardly extending flangehaving a width 57 a, supported only by the connection between therecessed edge 56 a to the wall 52. In another option, the inner edge 56b joins the contact region 57 to the outer surface 52 b and the contactregion 57 is supported only by the connection between the inner edge 56b to the wall 52. The contact region 57 is recessed downward relative tothe upper edge 54, as shown in FIG. 9, and is configured to receive, forexample, a human hip. Moreover, the contact region 57 is preferablyconfigured to receive the human anatomy from a point above the hip to apoint below the buttock. The contact region 57 is also preferablyhorizontal. As used here, horizontal means substantially at zero degreesrelative to the resting surface. However, the contact region 57 canoptionally be inclined inwardly so as to drain liquid falling on thecontact region 57 back into the cavity 53, as shown in FIG. 9.

The wall 52 defines a maximum height 52 d along the periphery of thewall 52. The maximum height 52 d is defined as the distance from theresting surface to the upper edge 54 of the wall 52. The wall 52 alsodefines a minimum height 52 e defined as the distance from the restingsurface to the inner edge 56 b. The heights 52 d, 52 e are configured tobe sufficiently large to allow the cavity 53 defined by the wall 52 andthe base 51 to hold a substantial volume of fluid.

As described above with respect to the basin 10, the convertible portion59 can similarly comprise a variety of structures and combination ofstructures. Moreover, a plurality of convertible portions 59 canoptionally be disposed along the periphery of the wall 52 and the base51. For example, but without limitation, the convertible portion 59 cancomprise a hole 59 formed on the wall 52 covered with a removable cover,such as, but not limited to, a peel-off seal. The cover can be attachedto the outer surface 52 b, for example, with an adhesive.

In another example, the convertible portion 59 can comprise a threadedhole 59 formed on the wall 52 with a threaded plug that covers the hole59. In still another example, a removable cork can be used to cover thehole 59.

In yet another example, the convertible portion 59 can comprise a nipple59 having a removable cap, the nipple 59 extending outward from theouter surface 52 b. The nipple 59 can be molded onto the outer surface52 b. Optionally, the nipple 59 can be removably screwed onto the outersurface 52 b. In another example, the convertible portion 59 cancomprise a nipple 59 having a strainer and a removable cover, such as,but not limited to a peel-off seal.

In still another example, the convertible portion 59 can comprise aclamp 59 configured to receive a suction hose, such as a conventionalsuction hose found in a medical facility, where the clamp 59 isintegrally molded or removably attached to the inner surface 52 a of thebasin 50. In another example, the convertible portion 59 can comprise aremovable holder having at least one clip disposed over the wall 52 ofthe basin 50.

According to the illustrated embodiment of the basin 50, the convertibleportion 59 is preferably in the form of an annularly extending score 59defining a frangible portion disposed on the curved region 55 a.However, the score 59 can be disposed on any portion of the wall 52 orthe base 51. Additionally, a plurality of scores 59 can optionally bedisposed on the basin 50. The score 59 is configured to form an aperturethrough the wall 52 or base 51 to drain the cavity 53 following theremoval of the material bounded by the score 59 from the wall 52. Thescore 59 is preferably disposed near the bottom of the curved region 55a, close to the resting surface. However, the score 59 may be disposedin any location capable of providing an effective drain for the cavity53 upon the removal of the material bounded by the score 59 from thewall 52. Additionally, though the score 59 preferably comprises acircular shape, as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the score 59 cancomprise any shape that provides an effective drain for the cavity 53.For example, the score 59 can comprise a slit.

In preparation for the irrigation of a hip wound, medical personnel havethe patient lay on their side on the examination table so that the woundon the hip faces away from the table. Personnel then place the basin 50adjacent the patient's hip so that the hip rests on the contact region57 from a point above the hip to a point below the buttock. Accordingly,the contact region 57 receives the injured hip and the wound facestoward the cavity 53. Personnel then direct irrigation fluid with anirrigation device to the wound region to remove any contaminants fromthe wound region. Because the contact region 57 is recessed relative tothe upper edge 54, the upper edge 54 advantageously acts as a shieldduring the irrigation procedure, effectively directing irrigation fluidtoward the cavity 53. The irrigation fluid directed to the wound regionsubsequently collects in the cavity 53 of the basin 50.

If medical personnel wish to actively drain the basin 50 during theirrigation procedure, personnel modify the convertible portion 59, asdescribed above with respect to the basin 10, to create a drain in thebasin 50. The basin 50 is then ready to be actively drained. In theillustrated embodiment, where the convertible portion 59 comprises afrangible portion 59, personnel can break the frangible portion 59 tocreate a drain for the basin 50. Personnel can optionally insert adraining device, such as the grommet 20, into the drain and attach asuction hose to the draining device. Personnel can then attach a secondend of the suction hose to a suction device to actively drain the basin50. As noted above, the basin 50 can comprise a plurality of convertibleportions 59 disposed along the periphery of the basin 50, allowingpersonnel to choose the convertible portion 59 that best accommodatesthe draining of the basin 50 or create additional drains.

Medical personnel can also actively drain the basin 50 by attaching theadhesive surface 5 a of the cannula 5 to the inner surface 52 a of thebasin 50 such that an end of the cannula 5 is proximal to the base 51.Optionally, the cannula 5 is configured to self-support against theinner surface 52 a of the basin 50 without an adhesive surface.Personnel can then attach a second end of the cannula 5 to a suctiondevice, as described above.

With reference to FIG. 11, an irrigation basin 60 for irrigating a woundon a human anatomy is illustrated therein. For example, the basin 60 canbe used for irrigating a wound on a lower arm region or a lower legregion of the human anatomy. The basin 60 comprises a base 61 having agenerally rectangular shape and a peripheral wall 62. The basin 60 canhave other shapes, such as, but without limitation, round, oval, kidney,and square. The wall 62 is preferably substantially at ninety degreesrelative to a resting surface upon which the basin 60 rests. The base 61and the wall 62 define a cavity 63 in the center of the basin 60. Theperipheral wall 62 also defines an inner surface 62 a facing toward thecavity 63 of the basin 60 and an outer surface 62 b facing away from thecavity 63 of the basin 60. The basin 60 also comprises an upperperiphery 64 having an inner edge 64 a and an outer edge 64 b. The outeredge 64 b joins the upper periphery 64 to the outer surface 62 b. In theillustrated embodiment, the periphery 64 defines an inwardly extendingflange having a width 62 c, supported only by the connection between theouter edge 64 b to the wall 62. Alternatively, the thickness of the wall62 can be sufficient to form the periphery 64. In another option, theinner edge 64 a joins the upper periphery 64 to the outer surface 62 band the periphery 64 is supported only by the connection between theinner edge 64 a to the wall 62.

The basin 60 is preferably made of a hard plastic material. For example,but without limitation, the basin 60 can be made of polyurethane orpolypropylene, among other materials. The material is preferablybiocompatible and hypo-allergenic. The basin 60 can also be made ofmetal, such as, but without limitation, stainless steel. Additionally,the basin 60 is preferably sterilized for use in medical procedures. Thebasin 60 can optionally be re-useable.

The basin 60 comprises a recess 65 configured to receive a humanextremity. For example, the recess 65 can be configured to receive ahuman forearm to irrigate a wound located below a human elbow. Inanother example, the recess 65 can be configured to receive a human calfto irrigate a wound located below a human knee. The recess 65 isdisposed along the upper periphery 64 at one end of the basin 60 andbisects the outer surface 62 b and the inner surface 62 a. The recess 15joins to the upper periphery 14 at edges 14 c.

The basin 60 also optionally includes at least one convertible portion69 disposed on the outer surface 62 b of the wall 62 near the bottomedge of the basin 60, where the bottom edge is the edge that contactsthe resting surface. One convertible portion 69 is shown in theillustrated embodiment. The convertible portion 69 can optionally bedisposed on the base 61. In one example, the convertible portion 69 canbe centrally disposed on the bottom of the base 61.

As shown in FIG. 11, the base 61 of the basin 60 is generally horizontalrelative to the resting surface and rectangular in shape. Moreover, thebase 61 is substantially at zero degrees relative to the restingsurface. However, the base 61 of the basin 60 is not limited to therectangular shape or to being parallel to the resting surface. Forexample, the base 61 may be inclined at an angle greater than zerodegrees and configured to direct irrigation fluid on the base 61 in thedirection of the inner surface 62 a nearest to the convertible portion69. For example, the wall 62 can include downwardly protruding portions(not shown) which raise an end 67 a relative to an end 67 b.Alternatively, the base 61 can be mounted to the wall 62 such that theend of the base 61 adjacent end 67 a is higher than the end of the base61 adjacent end 67 b. In another example, the base 61 can be configuredto be adjustably inclined to a plurality of angles such that the end ofthe base 61 adjacent end 67 a is higher than the end of the base 61adjacent the end 67 b.

The peripheral wall 62 defines a thickness, which preferably is uniformalong the periphery of the wall 62. The thickness is configured toprovide the wall 62 with adequate structural rigidity to preventexcessive flexing of the wall 62. Accordingly, the thickness canoptionally have various sizes, each of which is capable of providing thewall 62 with adequate structural rigidity. For example, the thicknesscan be between 1 mm and 5 cm.

The wall 62 defines a maximum height 62 d along the periphery of thewall 62. The maximum height 62 d is defined as the distance from theresting surface to the upper periphery 64 of the wall 62. The wall 62also defines a minimum height 62 e at the end 67 b of the basin. Theminimum height 62 e is defined as the distance from the resting surfaceto a minimum point 65 a of the recess 65. The heights 62 d, 62 e areconfigured to be sufficiently large to allow the cavity 63 to hold asubstantial volume of fluid.

The upper periphery 64 in the illustrated embodiment is generallyparallel to the resting surface. However, the upper periphery 64 canoptionally be inclined inwardly so as to drain liquid falling on theperiphery 64 back into the cavity 63. Additionally, the periphery 64 canhave a curved surface so that the periphery 64 does not have the edge 64b to provide a seamless junction between the upper periphery 64 and theouter surface 62 b.

The recess 65, as illustrated in FIG. 11, extends from the edges 64 c ofthe upper periphery 64 to the minimum point 65 a. Moreover, the recess65 has a curved shape. However, the recess 65 may optionally have anycontoured shape configured to receive a human extremity. Accordingly,the recess 65 is not limited to the arcuate shape illustrated in FIG.11. The recess 65 further comprises a recess surface 65 b and edges 65c, 65 d. The recess 65 preferably joins to the wall 62 at the edge 65 d.Optionally, the recess 65 can join to the wall 62 at the edge 65 c. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the recess surface 65 b extends horizontallyfrom the edge 65 c to the edge 65 d adjacent the outer surface 62 b. Therecess surface 65 b can optionally be curved between the inner surface62 a and the outer surface 62 b to provide a seamless junction betweenthe surface 65 b and the surfaces 62 a, 62 b without the edge 65 d. Therecess surface 65 b can also optionally be inclined inwardly so as todrain liquid falling on the surface 65 b back into the cavity 63. Therecess 65 may also have a contoured juncture with the upper periphery 64to provide a seamless junction between the recess surface 65 b and theupper periphery 64, without the edges 64 c.

As described above with respect to the basin 10, the convertible portion69 can similarly comprise a variety of structures and combination ofstructures. Moreover, a plurality of convertible portions 69 canoptionally be disposed along the periphery of the wall 62 and the base61. For example, but without limitation, the convertible portion 69 cancomprise a hole 69 formed on wall 62 covered with a removable cover,such as, but not limited to, a peel-off seal. The cover can be attachedto the outer wall 62 b, for example, with an adhesive.

In another example, the convertible portion 69 can comprise a threadedhole 69 formed on the wall 62 with a threaded plug that covers the hole69. In still another example, a removable cork can be used to cover thehole 69.

In yet another example, the convertible portion 69 can comprise a nipple69 having a removable cap, the nipple 69 extending outward from theouter wall 62 b. The nipple 69 can be molded onto the outer wall 62 b.Optionally, the nipple 69 can be removably screwed onto the outer wall62 b. In another example, the convertible portion 69 can comprise anipple 69 having a strainer and a removable cover, such as, but notlimited to a peel-off seal.

In still another example, the convertible portion 69 can comprise aclamp 69 configured to receive a suction hose, such as a conventionalsuction hose found in a medical facility, where the clamp 69 isintegrally molded or removably attached to the inner surface 62 a of thebasin 60. In another example, the convertible portion 69 can comprise aremovable holder having at least one clip disposed over the wall 62 ofthe basin 60. In another example, the convertible portion can comprisean aperture on the upper periphery 64 configured to receive a cannula.

According to the illustrated embodiment of the basin 60, the convertibleportion 69 is in the form of an annularly extending score defining afrangible portion disposed on the outer surface 62 b. However, the score69 may be disposed on any portion of the wall 62 or the base 61.Additionally, a plurality of scores 69 can optionally be disposed on thebasin 60. The score 69 is configured to form an aperture through thewall 62 or base 61 to drain the cavity 63 following the removal of thematerial bounded by the score 69 from the wall 62. The score 69 ispreferably disposed near the bottom of the surface 62 b, close to theresting surface. However, the score 69 can be disposed in any locationcapable of providing an effective drain for the cavity 63 upon theremoval of the material bounded by the score 69 from the wall 62.Additionally, though the score 69 preferably comprises a circular shape,as shown in the illustrated embodiment, the score 69 can comprise anyshape that provides an effective drain for the cavity 63. For example,the score 69 can comprise a slit.

In preparation for the irrigation of a wound on a human extremity, ifthe wound is located below the patient's elbow, medical personnel placethe basin 60 below the patient's arm such that the patient's forearmrests on the recess 65. Alternatively, if the wound is located below thepatient's knee, personnel place the basin 60 below the patient's legsuch that the patient's calf rests on the recess 65. Accordingly, thepatient's wound is disposed over the cavity 63 of the basin 60.

If personnel wish to actively drain the basin 60 during the irrigationprocedure, personnel modify the convertible portion 69, as describedabove with respect to the basin 10, to create a drain in the basin 60.The basin 60 is then ready to be actively drained. In the illustratedembodiment, where the convertible portion 69 comprises a frangibleportion 69, personnel can break the frangible portion 69 to create adrain for the basin 60. Personnel can optionally insert a drainingdevice, such as the grommet 20, into the drain and attach a suction hoseto the draining device. Personnel can then attach a second end of thesuction hose to a suction device to actively drain the basin 60. Asnoted above, the basin 60 can comprise a plurality of convertibleportions 69 disposed along the periphery of the basin 60, allowingpersonnel to choose the convertible portion 69 that best accommodatesthe draining of the basin 60 or create additional drains.

Medical personnel can also actively drain the basin 60 by attaching theadhesive surface 5 a of the cannula 5 to the inner surface 62 a of thebasin 60 such that an end of the cannula 5 is proximal to the base 61.Optionally, the cannula 5 is configured to self-support against theinner surface 62 a of the basin 60 without an adhesive surface.Personnel can then attach a second end of the cannula 5 to a suctiondevice, as described above.

Irrigation fluid is then directed to the wound region to remove anycontaminants from the wound region. The irrigation fluid directed to thewound region subsequently collects in the cavity 63 of the basin 60. Therecess 65 advantageously improves the fluid-collection ability of thecavity 63 by reducing escape of irrigation fluid through the juncture ofthe extremity with the recess 65.

With reference to FIG. 12, an irrigation shield 70 is illustratedtherein. The irrigation shield 70 comprises a sheet 71 and an aperture73 disposed at a central portion of the sheet 71. The aperture 73 isconfigured to be stretched from a resting state to an enlarged state.The sheet 71 is flexible and thus can be shaped to define an open end74.

An elastic member 73 b preferably attaches circumferentially to thesheet 71, around the aperture 73 and is configured to be modified from aresting state to an enlarged state for use with an irrigation devicesuch as the one disclosed in U.S. Pat. No. 6,156,004, discussed below.The member 73 b is further configured to generate a gripping force. Inthe illustrated embodiment, the elastic member 73 b is an elastic band.The elastic member 73 b can optionally be a latex portion attachedcircumferentially around the aperture 73, the latex portion having anelastically enlargeable opening configured to receive the irrigationdevice. The member 73 b is preferably attached to the sheet 71 withglue. However, the member 73 b can be attached to the sheet 71 in anumber of ways, such as, but without limitation, by being sewn to thesheet 71.

The sheet 71 is preferably transparent and made of a flexible material.For example, the sheet 71 can be made of polyurethane or polypropylene.In the illustrated embodiment, the sheet defines an umbrella shapeextending along an axis 72 and has a plurality of pleats 75 extendingbetween the aperture 73 at the longitudinal end 72 a and the open end 74at the longitudinal end 72 b. However, the sheet 71 can optionally haveno pleats 75. Moreover, the sheet 71 is not limited to defining anumbrella shape, but can define one of a variety of shapes. For example,but without limitation, the sheet 71 can define a circular shape, asquare shape, a rectangular shape, a star shape, a diamond shape, and ahalf-circle shape.

The sheet 71 comprises a length 76 defined as the distance between theaperture 73 at the longitudinal end 72 a to the open end 74 at thelongitudinal end 72 b. The length 76 is preferably four feet. The length76 of the sheet 71 can optionally be shortened, for example withscissors, as desired during an irrigation procedure. The sheet 71 alsocomprises a thickness 77. The thickness 77 may be any thickness thatadequately provides the sheet 71 with the necessary flexibility, andallows the sheet 71 to be folded compactly to fit in the cover 2 of thekit 1. For example, the thickness 77 preferably is from 0.001 inch to0.02 inch.

A typical irrigation device 80 is illustrated in FIG. 13. The device 80comprises an irrigation handpiece 81, and a suction irrigation tip 82that is detachably connected to the handpiece 81. The handpiece 81 isconnected to a suction source 83 through a flexible suction tubing 84,and to an irrigation source 85 through flexible irrigation tubing 86. Asuction lumen 87 and an irrigation lumen 88, both shown in phantom,extend through the entire length of the handpiece 81. The suction lumen87 connects to the suction source 83 at one end and to a suction port 89at a second end. The irrigation lumen 88 connects to the irrigationsource 85 at one end and to an irrigation port 90 at a second end. Bothports 89, 90 are formed in a fitting 91 at the distal end of thehandpiece 81.

When the tip 82 is connected to the handpiece 81 and the handpiece 81 isenergized, irrigation fluid passes through the irrigation port 90 andinto the tip 82. The irrigation fluid is emitted from a distal end 92 ofthe tip 82 at a frequency controlled by the handpiece trigger 93. Thetip 82 includes a flexible splash shield 95 and connector 96. Theconnector 96 is disposed at a proximal end 94 of the tip 82 anddetachably connects the tip 82 to the handpiece 81. The flexible shield95 includes a proximal collar 97 and a conical body that diverges in adistal direction to a distal rim 98. The collar 97 is slidably mountedto an irrigation tube 99 comprised by the tip 82. Vent holes 100disposed on the shield 95 are configured to prevent the shield fromcollapsing when the irrigation device 80 is operated in a suction mode.A stop ridge 102 may circumscribe the proximal end of the irrigationtube 99 to prevent the splash shield 95 from being retracted intocontact with the connector 96.

During operation, medical personnel connect the handpiece 81 to the tip82 and fit the rim 98 of the shield 95 through the aperture 73 in itsenlarged state so that the elastic member 73 b preferably rests aroundthe collar 97. The elastic member 73 b preferably generates a grippingforce on the collar to substantially prevent the elastic member 73 bfrom sliding along the collar 97. Personnel optionally shorten thelength 76 of the sheet 71 as desired. For example, personnel can cut thesheet 71 a desired distance circumferentially around the axis 72.Medical personnel preferably cut the sheet 71 with scissors, but mayoptionally use any sharp object.

Medical personnel then place the open end 74 of the sheet 71 so that itis disposed over the wound region of the patient. For example, if thewound is on the knee-area, as discussed above, personnel can place thesheet 71 over the injured leg of the patient so that it covers the woundarea and the basin 10. Personnel then actuate the irrigation device bypressing the trigger 93 to emit irrigation fluid from the tip 82.Irrigation fluid is then directed to the wound area of the patient,which is then collected in the basin.

It is to be noted that the illustrated irrigation device 80 is merely anexample of irrigation devices used in the surgical arts. The aperture 73can be sized to fit over and engage any type of irrigation device,including those without a suction or aspiration feature, and those withdifferent sizes and types of splash shields, or with or without a splashshield.

With reference to FIGS. 14-20, a prior art suction system is describedbelow with reference to FIGS. 14-19. An improved suction hose isillustrated in FIG. 20, in section view and identified generally by thereference numeral 5′.

With reference to FIG. 14, a typical suction system used in an operatingroom includes a suction source 110, a suction hose 112 having a firstend connected to the suction source and a second end 114 which includesa female adapter configured to releasably engage a fluid and debriscollection device 116.

The fluid and debris collection device 116 is typically in the form of aglass jar 118 having a lid 120. The lid 120 includes a connector 122configured to create a seal with the adapter 114. The lid 120 typicallyincludes at least one other adapter 124 that is configured to connectwith a female connector typically included with suction hose typicallyused in an operating room.

FIG. 15 shows an enlarged side elevational view of a female connector126 connected to an end of suction hose 128. The suction hose 128 has aninner diameter 130 of about 6 millimeters. The outer diameter 132 of thehose 128 is about 9 millimeters.

The female adapter 126 includes a first annular recess 134 that isconfigured to mate with the outer surface of the tubing 128. The femaleadapter 126 also includes a stop member 136 that is configured to abutthe inner end of the hose 128. The inner surface 138 of the stop 136 issized so as to define an inner diameter that is approximately equal tothe inner diameter 130. The female adapter 126 also includes an innerrecess 140 that is configured to receive the adapter 124 (FIG. 14). Theopposite end of the hose 128 can include another female adapter similaror identical to the female adapter 126.

As shown in FIG. 16, a suction device 142 which is commonly used inmedical procedures, includes an inlet end 144 and a discharge end 146.The inlet end 144 includes a plurality of openings 148, opening into aninner lumen 150. The openings 148 are sized to prevent large clumps oftissue and bone chips from entering the lumen 150. For example, oneknown suction device includes openings that are about 4 m long and 1-2mm wide.

The lumen 150 extends along the length of the suction device 142 andterminates at a discharge 146. The discharge 146 is configured to fitinto a recess of a female adapter such as the recess 140 in the femaleadapter 126 (FIG. 15).

In an operation, the vacuum hose 128 connects the suction device 142with the adapter 124 of the debris collector 116. With the suctionsource 110 activated, a vacuum is created in the interior of thecollection device 116, thereby drawing a vacuum through the adapter 124,through the vacuum hose 128 and through the suction device 142. As such,fluid and debris is drawn through the apertures 148, through the lumen150, through the hose 128 and into the interior of the collection device116. Because the adapter 122 is mounted to the lid 120, the fluid anddebris collected within the jar 118 does not enter the hose 112 or thesuction source 110.

However, it has been found that the suction hose 128 that is typicallyused in operating rooms can become clogged more easily than the suctiondevice 142. Further, it is also been found that clogs within the suctionhose 128 can be initiated at deformed portions of the house 128.

For example, with reference to FIG. 17, a suction hose kit 152 isillustrated therein and includes a sterilized package 154 and thesuction tubing 128. It has been found that such conventional suctiontubing 128 can become deformed. For example, some portions of suchsuction tubing 128 remains round in sections.

As shown in FIG. 18, the cross-sectional shape of the tubing 128 incertain areas remains round. However, as shown in FIG. 19, certainportions of the tubing 128 can become constricted. This deformation cansometimes be found in the curve of the tubing 128 that has been foldedfor packaging purposes so that the tubing 128 fits within the package154. Additionally, various portions of the tubing 128 can includeindentations that may have been formed by machines used to manufacturethe tubing 128 or from the weight of other articles stacked on top ofthe package 154 during stocking. Regardless of the mechanism causingsuch deformation, an inner dimension 156 of the deformed portion of thetube 128 can become sufficiently restricted that the likelihood ofclogging at the deformed portion is increased.

Thus, in accordance with an aspect of at least one of the inventionsdisclosed herein, a suction tubing 5′ illustrated in FIG. 20 includes aninner diameter of at least about 8 millimeters. More preferably, theinner diameter of the tubing 5′ is from about 8 millimeters to about 15millimeters.

As such, the tubing 5′ can include the same type of deformationsoccurring in the known suction tubing 128, yet retain a sufficientclearance within its inner dimension that the likelihood of clogging isnot increased as greatly as that resulting from the deformed portions ofthe tubing 128 illustrated in FIG. 19. For example, were the suctiontubing 5′ is formed with an inner diameter of about 8 millimeters in arelaxed state, the suction tubing 5′ can be deformed to some extentresulting in a minimum inner dimension identified by the referencenumeral 158. Because the diameter of the suction tubing 5′ in a relaxedstate is at least 8 millimeters, the reduced inner dimension 158 causedby a deformation can still be as large as 6 millimeters. Thus, where thetubing 5′ has been damaged or deformed in the same manner as the knowntubing 128, the tubing 5′ is less likely to cause clogging in the samemanner as the known tubing 128.

Optionally, the tubing 5′ can include the same female connectors 126described above with reference to FIG. 15. However, such female adapterscan also include slight modifications to the inner recess 134 so as tomore readily accept the outer diameter of the tubing 5′.

In another modification, a female adapter included with the tubing 5′can define a larger inner diameter than the inner surface 138 of theadapter 126. In use, it may be preferable to cut the adapter 124 so asto avoid the formation of a bottle neck in the vacuum circuit leading tothe container 116.

Although the inventions disclosed herein have been disclosed in thecontext of certain preferred embodiments and examples, it will beunderstood by those skilled in the art that the inventions disclosedherein extend beyond the specifically disclosed embodiments to otheralternative embodiments and/or uses of the inventions and obviousmodifications and equivalents thereof. Thus, it is intended that thescope of the inventions disclosed herein should not be limited by theparticular disclosed embodiments described above, but should bedetermined only by a fair reading of the embodiments that follow.

1-77. (canceled)
 78. A medical basin for collecting fluid during anirrigation procedure of a wound on a human extremity, the basin beingsterilized and comprising: a base; a peripheral will comprising: aninner surface defining a cavity configured to receive the irrigationfluid during the irrigation procedure, a first side and a second side,wherein the first side and second side are opposed to each other, athird side and a fourth side, wherein the third side and fourth side areopposed to each other, and wherein the third side and fourth side eachinclude a recess; a grommet comprising an elongate tube and a pluralityof tapered flanges, wherein the grommet is configured to engage with aflexible conduit to facilitate removal of irrigation fluid from thebasin during the irrigation procedure of the wound on the humanextremity; a strainer; a fluid flow path configured such that fluidpasses through the strainer and the grommet.
 79. The medical basin ofclaim 78, further including a transparent flexible sheet.
 80. Themedical basin of claim 78, wherein the first side, second side, thirdside, and fourth side are inclined inwardly.
 81. The medical basin ofclaim 78, wherein the medical basin is generally rectangular.
 82. Themedical basin of claim 78, wherein the base comprises a recess that hasa C-shape when viewed from a top aerial view with the basin is restingon a flat surface.
 83. The medical basin of claim 78, wherein thegrommet comprises a channel with a first end and a second end, andwherein the diameter of the first end is greater than the diameter ofthe second end.
 84. A medical basin for collecting fluid during anirrigation procedure of a wound on a human extremity, the basin beingsterilized and comprising: a base, wherein the base comprises a recessthat has a C-shape when viewed from a top aerial view with the basin isresting on a flat surface; a peripheral wall comprising: an innersurface defining a cavity configured to receive the irrigation fluidduring the Ligation procedure; a first side and a second side, whereinthe first side and second side are opposed to each other; a third sideand a fourth side, wherein the third side and fourth side are opposed toeach other, and wherein the third side and fourth side each include arecess; a connection element configured to connect with a suction hoseto facilitate removal of irrigation fluid from the basin during theirrigation procedure of the wound on the human extremity; and whereinthe basin has a length and a height, the ratio of the length to theheight being at least
 3. 85. The medical basin of claim 84, furtherincluding a transparent flexible sheet.
 86. The medical basin of claim84, wherein the first side, second side, third side, and fourth side areinclined inwardly.
 87. The medical basin of claim 84, wherein themedical basin is generally rectangular.
 88. The medical basin of claim84, wherein the connection element is a grommet that comprises a channelwith a first end and a second end, and wherein the diameter of the firstend is greater than the diameter of the second end.
 89. The medicalbasin of claim 84, wherein the connection element comprises an elongatetube and a plurality of tapered flanges.
 90. The medical basin of claim84, further including a strainer.
 91. A medical basin for collectingfluid during an irrigation procedure of a wound on a human extremity,the basin being sterilized and comprising: a base; a peripheral wallcomprising: an inner surface defining a cavity configured to receive theirrigation fluid during the irrigation procedure; a first side and asecond side, Wherein the first side and second side are opposed to eachother; a third side and a fourth side, wherein the third side and fourthside are opposed to each other, and wherein the third side and fourthside each include a recess; a grommet configured to engage with aflexible conduit to facilitate removal of irrigation fluid from thebasin during the irrigation procedure of the wound on the humanextremity, wherein the grommet comprises a channel with a first end anda second end, and wherein the diameter of the first end is greater thanthe diameter of the second end; and wherein the basin has a length and aheight, the ratio of the length to the height being at least
 3. 92. Themedical basin of claim 91, further including a transparent flexiblesheet.
 93. The medical basin of claim 91, wherein the first side, secondside, third side, and fourth side are inclined inwardly.
 94. The medicalbasin of claim 91, wherein the medical basin is generally rectangular.95. The medical basin of claim 91, wherein the base comprises a recessthat has a C-shape when viewed from a top aerial view with the basin isresting on a flat surface.
 96. The medical basin of claim 91, whereinthe grommet comprises an elongate tube and a plurality of taperedflanges.
 97. The medical basin of claim 91, further including astrainer.